Mounting System, Devices, Methods and Uses Thereof

ABSTRACT

The present specification discloses systems, devices, and methods provide a mounting system which includes rail and a bracket which is selectively secured to the rail. The bracket is selectively and/or automatically locked to the rail when positioned on the rail, and may be removed from the rail by activating one or more buttons or actuators. The disclosed mounting systems, devices, and methods enable a device to be protected from impact and moisture exposure, enable a device to be securely mounted on a base, and/or enable a device to be quickly secured and removed from a base.

This continuation application claims the benefit of priority and isentitled to the filing date pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S.Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 16/749,973, filed on Jan.22, 2020, a 35 U.S.C. § 111 patent application which claims the benefitof priority and is entitled to the filing dates of 35 U.S.C. § 119 toU.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/877,270, filed on Jul.22, 2019, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/796,494, filedon Jan. 24, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/795,539, filed on Jan. 22, 2019, each of which is hereby incorporatedby reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The subject of this patent application relates generally to devices forsecurely and releasably mounting and/or protecting devices, equipment orother apparatus (collectively referred to as “devices”).

By way of background, in rugged applications and environments, there isa need for devices, equipment or other apparatus to be protected fromimpact and moisture. For example, both electrical and mechanical devicescan become damaged and their operability impaired or lost upon exposureto moisture, such as, e.g., air moisture or humidity or being submergedin a liquid. Such moisture exposure can affect electronical and/ormechanical mechanisms to such a degree that the device becomesinoperable. Similar damage can occur from the resulting impact if adevice is dropped or struck by another object.

In addition, in rugged applications and environments, a user of a devicemay desire to take a device into an environment where moisture exposureis highly likely or certain to occur and/or device impact is a risk. Insuch situations, the user wants to protect a device to prevent suchdamage before entering into this environment. For example, a user maywish to take a photographic device, such as, e.g., a camera or devicesuch as a smart phone or tablet having a camera underwater in order totake pictures of the sea life or environment. Such devices needprotection for the inevitable exposure to the fresh or salt-waterexposure. Likewise, a user may wish to take a photographic device whilehiking or climbing in rugged terrain where there is a real risk ofdropping the device or having the device striking the terrain. Again,such devices need protection for the impact when the device is sostruck.

Further, in rugged applications and environments, there is a need for adevice to be securely mounted (through a mount) on a base. Such devicemounting could be done to facilitate operation of the device and/orstore the device when not in use. Such mounting could also enable freeuse of the hands of a user to do other things or complete other tasks.For example, a user may desire to mount a smart phone, tablet, nightvision goggle (NVG), ground-positioning system (GPS) or similar deviceto the dashboard of a vehicle in order to operate a navigational systemwhile operating the vehicle or take a video during vehicle operation.Similarly, a device can be mounted on clothing of a user, for example,vest or harness, in order to attach a device to the person of the user.For example, a use may wish to mount a device on a helmet or vest wornby the user in order to navigate terrain while hiking or riding a bikeor videotape the experience.

Moreover, in rugged applications and environments, there is a need forthese devices to be quickly removed from the mount and reattached toanother mount (or simply stowed), while preventing unintended removal orfumbling. Such quick removal can reduce user frustration, enhancesoperability of the devices and imparts greater flexibility of use. Forexample, a user could mount a photographic device on the dashboard of avehicle in order to navigate to a rock-climbing location, and oncethere, quickly remove the device from the dashboard and the quicklyattach the device to a helmet or vest worn by the user.

However, current devices, systems and methods are unable to achieve orattain all of the attributes discussed above. For example, while certaindevices may offer protection to impact or moisture exposure, thesedevices are either ineffective or so cumbersome that they interfere withthe operability of the device. Similarly, while current mounting systemsprovide a means to secure a device to a base, these systems typicallyignore or are ineffective in protecting a device from impact or moistureexposure. These mounting systems also suffer in that they tend to beincompatible with other mounting systems, forcing a user to purchaseadditional adaptors to enable compatibility or simply choice onemounting system over another. Likewise, although certain mountingsystems may offer a means to secure a device quickly to a base or removethe device quickly from the base, attachment security is sacrificed toachieve such each of use. As such, a device can become dislodged from abase and incur damage from the resulting impact or moisture exposure.

Aspects of the present invention fulfill these needs and provide furtherrelated advantages as described in the following summary.

SUMMARY

The present systems, devices, and methods provide a mounting systemwhich includes rail and a bracket which is selectively secured to therail. The bracket is selectively and/or automatically locked to the railwhen positioned on the rail, and may be removed from the rail byactivating one or more actuators and, optionally, one or more safetyactuators. The disclosed systems, devices, and methods enable a deviceto be protected from impact and moisture exposure, enable a device to besecurely mounted on a base, and enable a device to be quickly securedand removed from a base.

Other features and advantages of aspects of the present invention willbecome apparent from the following more detailed description, taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way ofexample, the principles of aspects of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A-C is a mounting system disclosed herein, with FIG. 1A showing atop perspective of a mounting system disclosed herein, illustrating abracket aligned and ready for attachment to a rail, where the rail isconfigured as a base; FIG. 1B showing a top perspective of the mountingsystem of FIG. 1A, illustrating a bracket attached to a rail; and FIG.1C showing an exploded top perspective view of the rail of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2 is a front top perspective view of a rail disclosed herein;

FIG. 3 is a front top perspective view of a rail disclosed herein;

FIG. 4 is a front top perspective view of a rail disclosed herein;

FIG. 5 is a front top perspective view of a rail disclosed herein;

FIG. 6 is a front top perspective view of a rail disclosed herein;

FIG. 7 is a front top perspective view of a rail disclosed herein.

FIGS. 8A-B is a mounting system disclosed herein, with FIG. 8A showing atop perspective of a mounting system disclosed herein, illustrating abracket aligned and ready for attachment to a rail, where the rail isconfigured as a case contains a device; and FIG. 8B showing a topperspective of the mounting system of FIG. 8A, illustrating a bracketattached to a rail;

FIG. 9 is a magnified top perspective view of a mounting systemdisclosed herein, showing a bracket disclosed herein in a first positionon the first end of a rail disclosed herein;

FIG. 10 is a magnified perspective view of the mounting system of FIG.9, showing a bracket disclosed herein moved to a second position on thefirst end of a rail disclosed herein;

FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective of the rail of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the mounting system of FIG. 8B;

FIG. 13 is a bottom plan view of the rail of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 14 is a first side plan view of the rail of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 15 is a second side plan view of the rail of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 16 is a first end plan view of the rail of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 17 is a second end plan view of the rail of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 18 is an exploded top perspective view of the rail of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 19 is an top perspective view a gasket member disclosed herein;

FIG. 20 is a magnified partially exploded top perspective view of thesecond end of the rail of FIG. 8A;

FIG. 21 is a magnified partial cross-sectional view of the rail of FIG.17, taken at 21-21;

FIG. 22 is a magnified partial cross-sectional view of the mountingsystem of FIG. 12, taken at 22-22;

FIG. 23 is a magnified partial cross-sectional view of the mountingsystem of FIG. 12, taken at 23-23;

FIG. 24 is a magnified partial cross-sectional view of the mountingsystem of FIG. 12, taken at 24-24;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting system of FIG. 12,taken at 25-25;

FIG. 26 is a magnified partial cross-sectional view of the rail of FIG.14, taken at 26-26;

FIG. 27 is a magnified partial cross-sectional view of the rail of FIG.15, taken at 27-27;

FIG. 28 is a front top perspective view of a bracket disclosed herein inthe closed configuration;

FIG. 29 is a back top perspective view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in theclosed configuration;

FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the closedconfiguration;

FIG. 31 is a bottom plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the closedconfiguration;

FIG. 32 is a front plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the closedconfiguration;

FIG. 33 is a back plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the closedconfiguration;

FIG. 34 is a first end plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the closedconfiguration;

FIG. 35 is a second end plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in theclosed configuration;

FIG. 36 is a front top perspective view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in theopen configuration;

FIG. 37 is a back top perspective view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in theopen configuration;

FIG. 38 is a top plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the openconfiguration;

FIG. 39 is a bottom plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the openconfiguration;

FIG. 40 is a front plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the openconfiguration;

FIG. 41 is a back plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the openconfiguration;

FIG. 42 is a first end plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the openconfiguration;

FIG. 43 is a second end plan view of the bracket of FIG. 28 in the openconfiguration;

FIG. 44 is an exploded front top perspective view of a bracket disclosedherein;

FIG. 45 is an exploded back top perspective view of the bracket of FIG.44;

FIG. 46 is an exploded back perspective view of the bracket adaptordisclosed herein, illustrating attachment of the bracket adaptor to thebracket of FIG. 44;

FIG. 47 is an exploded front perspective view of the bracket adaptor ofFIG. 46, illustrating attachment of the bracket adaptor to the bracketof FIG. 44;

FIG. 48 is a first side view of a latching pin disclosed herein;

FIG. 49 is a second side view of the latching pin of FIG. 48;

FIG. 50 is a side view of a latch bolt disclosed herein;

FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional top perspective view of the bracket of FIG.34, showing the bracket in the closed and locked or unlatchedconfiguration, with rotating tab slightly pulled from its recess andready for rotation;

FIG. 52 is a cross-sectional top perspective view of the bracket of FIG.42, showing the bracket in the closed and unlocked or unlatchedconfiguration and ready for opening;

FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional top perspective view of the bracket of FIG.42, taken at 53-53, showing the bracket in the open and unlocked orunlatched configuration;

FIG. 54 is a cross-sectional top perspective view of the bracket of FIG.34, taken at 54-54, showing the bracket in the closed and relocked orre-latched configuration;

FIG. 55 is a front top perspective view of a bracket having a hingedcoupler disclosed herein;

FIG. 56 is a back top perspective view of the hinged coupler of FIG. 55;

FIG. 57 is an exploded front top perspective view of the hinged couplerof FIG. 55;

FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional side plan view of the hinged coupler ofFIG. 55, taken at 58-58, showing detent assembly;

FIG. 59 is a first side plan view of the socket of the hinged coupler ofFIG. 55, showing hinged coupler in a first angular position;

FIG. 60 is a first side plan view of the socket of the hinged coupler ofFIG. 55, showing hinged coupler in a second angular position;

FIG. 61 is a first side plan view of the socket of the hinged coupler ofFIG. 55, showing hinged coupler in a third angular position;

FIG. 62 is an exploded front top perspective view of a latching socketand inner knuckle of the hinged coupler of FIG. 55;

FIG. 63 is an exploded front bottom perspective view of a latchingsocket and inner knuckle of the hinged coupler of FIG. 55;

FIG. 64 is a top plan view of the socket of the hinged coupler of FIG.55, showing latching pins in a locked position;

FIG. 65 is a top plan view of the socket of the hinged coupler of FIG.55, showing latching pins in an unlocked position;

FIG. 66 is a front plan view of a coupler disclosed herein;

FIG. 67 is a side plan view of the coupler of FIG. 66;

FIG. 68 is a front plan view of a coupler disclosed herein;

FIG. 69 is a front top perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 68;

FIG. 70 is a back top perspective view of a coupler disclosed herein;

FIG. 71 is a back top perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 70;showing placement of components;

FIG. 72 is a side plan view of a device case adaptor disclosed herein;

FIG. 73 is an exploded bottom perspective view of the device caseadaptor of FIG. 72, illustrating attachment of the device case adaptorto a device case disclosed herein; and

FIG. 74 is an exploded top perspective view of the device case adaptorof FIG. 72, illustrating attachment of the device case adaptor to adevice case disclosed herein.

The above described drawing figures illustrate aspects of the inventionin at least one of its exemplary embodiments, which are further definedin detail in the following description. Features, elements, and aspectsof the invention that are referenced by the same numerals in differentfigures represent the same, equivalent, or similar features, elements,or aspects, in accordance with one or more embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A mounting system disclosed herein comprises a rail and a bracket. Amounting system disclosed herein can be mounted on or be used as amounting base for a wide variety of devices. A mounting system disclosedherein enables a device to be protected from impact and moistureexposure, enables a device to be securely mounted on a base, and enablesa device to be quickly secured and removed from a base.

A device is an electrical or mechanical instrument, equipment or otherapparatus. Exemplary devices include, without limitation, acomputational device like a smart phone, a tablet or a computer, anavigational device such as a compass, a ground positioning system(GPS), an altimeter, a pedometer, a medical device, a health monitoringdevice such as heart rate monitor, blood pulse monitor, or breathingrate monitor, a lighting device such as a flashlight, a night visiongoggle (NVG), or infrared lazar, an audiovisual device such as a stillcamera, a video camera, or an audio recorder, a communications devicesuch as a radio or any other device capable of transmitting and/orreceiving an analog or digital signal.

A rail disclosed herein serves as an attachment point for a bracketdisclosed herein. In aspects of this embodiment, a rail disclosed hereincan be secured to a device. In other aspects of this embodiment, a raildisclosed herein can be secured to a surface and serve as a base. A railis configured to the surface it is to be attached to.

In aspects of this embodiment, a rail is configured to the dimensions ofa device, such as, e.g., fully or partially around the outside perimeterof a device. For example, in aspects where a device is a smart phone ortablet, a rail conforms to the perimeter of the smart phone or tablet,and is thus typically rectangular in shape. In other aspects of thisembodiment, a rail is configured to the dimensions of a surface to whicha device is to be mounted. For example, in aspects where a raildisclosed herein will serve as a base and be mounted on a dashboard, therail can be a linear structure, for example, a line-structure, andL-shaped structure, or a polygonal structure like a triangularstructure, a quadrilateral structure, a pentagonal structure, etc. Infurther aspects, where a rail disclosed herein will serve as a base andbe mounted on a dashboard, rail can be a curvilinear structure,including an open curvilinear structure like a wave or S-shapedcurvilinear structure or a closed curvilinear structure like a circle oroval.

A bracket is an apparatus that securely attaches to a rail. A bracketdisclosed herein selectively and/or automatically secures or locks to arail disclosed herein when positioned on the rail. In addition, abracket disclosed herein may be removed from a rail, e.g., by activatingone or more actuators and, optionally, one or more safety actuators. Inaspects of this embodiment, a bracket disclosed herein securely andremovably attaches to a rail secured to a device. In other aspects ofthis embodiment, a bracket disclosed herein securely and removablyattaches to a rail configured to be a base. In yet other aspects of thisembodiment, a bracket disclosed herein securely and removably attachesto a rail secured to a device as well as to a rail configured to be abase, thereby connecting the device to the base.

One exemplary embodiment of a mounting system disclosed herein ismounting system 50 as illustrated in FIG. 1. Mounting system 50comprises a rail 52 and a bracket 54. In this configuration, rail 52typically serves the singular purpose of receiving bracket 54, or canserve as a connection between bracket 54 and a support or can serve as aframework or case for containing or supporting another object. A supportincludes any solid support structure or a portion of a surface area froma solid support structure where a user desires to secure rail 54 inorder to receive bracket 54 and employ mounting system 50 to mount adevice or component thereof. In some embodiments, a support comprises anarticle of clothing or other item worn by a user including, withoutlimitation, a helmet, personal protective equipment, a personal loadbearing system, or any other item worn about the body. In someembodiments, a support comprises a hard surface or portion thereof,including, without limitation, a portion of an exterior or interiorsurface of a vehicle like a bicycle, automobile, truck, train, boat oraircraft, such portion of an exterior or interior surface including adashboard, a handlebar, an exterior panel, or a windshield. In someembodiments, a support comprises an apparatus including, withoutlimitation, a hand-held object, a tripod or other stand, a weapon orweapons system, an electronics housing, or any other apparatus.

Another exemplary embodiment of a mounting system disclosed herein ismounting system 50 as illustrated in FIG. 8. Mounting system 50comprises a rail 52 and a bracket 54. In this configuration, rail 52serves as a device case 56 as well as serving as an attachment frameworkfor receiving bracket 54. In this embodiment, the shape of device case56 conforms to the perimeter shape of the device that device case 56 isto contain or enclose. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIG. 8, rail52 is a quadrilateral structure configured to the dimensions of a deviceD for protectively holding device D.

FIGS. 1-16 illustrate exemplary embodiments of rail 52. In someembodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1-7, rail 52 comprises a rail bodythat is a linear line-structure, the length of which can vary dependingon the desired application. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2, 5 & 6,rail body of rail 52 can be of a short length, comprising only a singleengagement slot 58. In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIGS. 1,3, 4, & 7, rail body of rail 52 can be longer in length, comprising aplurality of engagement slots 58. In some embodiments, and asillustrated in FIGS. 1-3 & 5-7, rail 52 can further comprise a basesupport 55 which provides stability to rail body of rail 52 once securedto a support.

Rail 52 of mounting system 50 can be secured to a support by any knownmechanism or process, such as, e.g., by being screwed, adhered,snap-fitted, insertion, welded, brazed, or other appropriate fasteningmeans. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, & 5, rail 52comprises securing holes 102 which enable pass through of screws 100 sothat rail 52 can be secured to a support using screws 100. In addition,and as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, rail 52 can optionally include one or moresecuring tabs 104 which comprises a hole to receive screw 100. In someembodiments, for example rail 52 of FIG. 5, besides or in addition tothe use of screws 100, base support 55 can have an adhesive layer on theside that will come in contact with a support to provide the sole oradditional mechanism of securing rail 52 to a support. In someembodiments, and as shown in FIG. 6, base support 55 can be used as aninsert into a base support mount by, e.g., a snap-fit mounting system,e.g., a shroud bracket system, and in this configuration can optionallyinclude a thumb release lock 57 which releases a locking mechanism usedto secure rail 52 to the base support mount as well as facilitatesinsertion and removal of rail 52. In some embodiments, and as shown inFIG. 7, base support 55 is formed into one or more tabs 59 configuredfor inserted into one or more pockets or pouches on a base supportmount, e.g., one or more insert pockets or pouches of a ModularLightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) load bearing system, a PouchAttachment Ladder System (PALS) load bearing system, IndividualIntegrated Fighting System (IIFS) load bearing system, or All-purposeLightweight Individual Carrying Equipment (ALICE) load bearing system.In some embodiments, rail 52 as shown in FIGS. 1-7 can be secured to abase support mount by rivets or similar type fasteners. In someembodiments, rail 52 as shown in FIGS. 1-3 can be secured to or replacean existing rail system, such as, e.g., a Picatinny rail mount system,an Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH) Accessory Rail Connector (ARC) railsystem, a Weaver rail mount system, a Monkey mount rail system, an ABSrail system, an E Track rail system, a VELCRO®-based mount system, and aRAM® Torque mount rail system.

In some embodiments, for example rail 52 of FIG. 4, rail 52 is securedto a hand grip or stand, like a tripod stand. In this configurationadditional devices and then be secured to the free portions of rail 52.For example, a hand grip can be secured to a central portion of rail 52of FIG. 4 and a video recorder and/or lights can be secured at eitherside of the hand grip.

Referring to FIGS. 1-8, rail 52 generally includes rail body comprisinga first engagement surface 60 opposite a second engagement surface 62with a third engagement surface 64 spanning between first engagementsurface 60 and second engagement surface 62. In this example embodiment,first engagement surface 60 is generally parallel to second engagementsurface 62, with third engagement surface 64 being substantiallyperpendicular to the two, In some embodiments, third engagement surface64 is within 10 degrees of perpendicular of at least one of firstengagement surface 60 and second engagement surface 62.

Referring to FIGS. 1-8, at least one of first engagement surface 60 andsecond engagement surface 62 includes one or more engagement slots 58.It is preferred that both first engagement surface 60 and secondengagement surface 62 include one or more engagement slots 58. Althoughengagement slots 58 are shown as elongated slots with rounded ends,engagement slots 58 can be round, rectangular, square, or otherappropriate though hole formed through or recess formed on firstengagement surface 60 and/or second engagement surface 62. As discussedbelow, the shape of engagement slots 58 are configured to receive one ormore engagement bosses 74, 75 of bracket 54.

In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 1-7, first engagement surface60, second engagement surface 62, and third engagement surface 64 arethird engagement surface 64 are all part of a single component thatforms rail 52, which generally does not require assembly. If rail 52were to be made in a configuration not requiring assembly, then rail 52can typically be made from a single type of material that is molded,machined, or manufactured by another appropriate process (althoughmultiple types of material can be used, if appropriate for theapplication).

In some embodiments, and as best shown in FIG. 16, first engagementsurface 60 and second engagement surface 62, and third engagementsurface 64 are each part of separate components that are assembled toform rail 52. In these embodiments, third engagement surface 64 can bemade integrally with one of first engagement surface 60 or secondengagement surface 62. If rail 52 were to be made in a configurationrequiring assembly, then each component part of rail 52 can be made fromthe same or different type material, such component parts being molded,machined, or manufactured by another appropriate process.

Referring again to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 8A, & 8B, bracket 54 of mounting system50 selectively locks to rail 52 by engaging one or more engagement slots58 (or engagement recesses) formed on rail 52. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A, 1B, 8A, & 8B, bracket 54 is illustrated as selectively lockedto slot 58′. Bracket 54 comprises a first jaw 70 and a second jaw 72,and a back plate 73 spanning between first jaw 70 and second jaw 72.

Although discussed in greater detail below (see, e.g., FIGS. 28, 32,34-36, 40, 42, & 43), one or more engagement bosses 74 are located on afirst clamping portion 122 of first jaw 70 of bracket 54 and one or moreengagement bosses 75 are located on a second clamping portion 124 ofsecond jaw 72 of bracket 54. One or more engagement bosses 74, 75 arearranged in direct opposition so that one or more engagement bosses 74of first clamping portion 122 of first jaw 70 of bracket 54 engage oneor more engagement slots 58 on first engagement surface 60 and one ormore engagement bosses 75 of second clamping portion 124 of second jaw72 of bracket 54 engage one or more engagement slots 58 on secondengagement surface 62 (hidden from view, but similar or the same asfirst engagement surface 60). In some embodiments, engagement bosses 74of first clamping portion 122 of first jaw 70 can be arranged inopposition, yet staggered (e.g., not in direct opposition or aligned)relative to engagement bosses 74 of second clamping portion 124 of firstjaw 72. Preferably, engagement bosses 74 of first clamping portion 122of first jaw 70 and engagement bosses 75 of second clamping portion 124of second jaw 72 are sized and spaced apart so that they bothselectively fit within a single engagement slot 58 in order to firmlyhold bracket 54 to rail 52. Alternatively, or in addition to, engagementbosses 74 of first clamping portion 122 of first jaw 70 and engagementbosses 75 of second clamping portion 124 of second jaw 72 are sized andspaced apart so that they both selectively straddle between two adjacentengagement slots 58. For example, referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 8A & 8B,one engagement boss engaged within slot 58′ and the other engagementboss engaged within slot 58″ in order to firmly hold bracket 54 to rail52. As further shown in FIGS. 9 & 10 bracket 54 is first shown attachedto rail 52 by exclusively engaging first engagement slot 58. Then, asindicated by arrow 362, bracket 54 is moved to the left on rail 52 byopening bracket 54, and reconnected to rail 54 by engaging both firstengagement slot 58 and second engagement slot 58′.

In some embodiments, and referring to FIG. 8A, third engagement surface64 of rail 54 optionally includes series of alternating locking slots 76and locking teeth 78 (where two adjacent slots 76 form a tooth 78therebetween), for providing a textured surface to facilitate gripping,holding or otherwise handling device case 56.

Rail 52 of mounting system 50 as shown in FIGS. 8 & 11-18 can furtherfunction as device case 56 for device D. An exploded view of anexemplary example of rail 52 functioning as device case 56 for device Dinserted therein (a smartphone in this example) is shown in FIG. 18. Theprimary structural components of rail 52 forming device case 56 comprisea first frame member 88, a sidewall frame member 92, and a second framemember 90. Sidewall frame member 92 is sandwiched between first framemember 88 and second frame member 90. As shown in FIG. 18, inembodiments where rail 52 is configured as a device case 56 for deviceD, first frame member 88 comprises first engagement surface 60, secondframe member 90 comprises second engagement surface 62, and sidewallframe member 92 comprises third engagement surface 64.

During assembly, and as best seen in FIG. 18, first frame member 88 andsecond frame member 90 compressively bearing down on sidewall framemember 92 by tightening a plurality of screws 100 which insert throughand firmly attach first frame member 88 to second frame member 90.Although screws 100 are only shown as being inserted from the top, i.e.,from first a frame member 88 direction to a second frame member 90,direction, screws in a similar pattern can be threaded in fromunderneath, i.e., from second a frame member 90 direction to a firstframe member 88, direction. First frame member 88, second frame member90, and a sidewall frame member 92 can be made from a tough material,preferably a polymer or aluminum material. Because aluminum threads mayeasily strip, the screws may be threaded into an insert 101, 103, 105made of stainless steel or high-strength material, such as afemale-female threaded standoff, nut, binding barrel, or the like.

As shown in FIGS. 8A, 11, 14, 15, & 18, sidewall frame member 92 ofdevice case 56 can comprise one or more adaptor attachment points 123,for securing another device or component thereof to rail 52 usingcompatible mounting systems. Sidewall frame member 92 also comprisesindexing holes 120, 121 to facilitate properly orientation of anotherdevice or component thereof being secured to device case 56 as well asto prevent misalignment of an attached another device or componentthereof while secured to device case 56. For example, device D encasedin device case 56 can be secured to a tripod using adaptor attachmentpoint 123. In some embodiments, adaptor attachment point 123 can be anystandard screw thread known in the art, including, without limitation,1/4-20 UNC thread, a 3/8-16 UNC thread, or any similar screw threadstandards known in the art.

In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 72-74, a device case adaptorCl comprises an indexing plate 500, an adaptor plate 530, and aretaining clip 540, such as, e.g., a C clip. Indexing plate 500 istypically disc-shaped and comprises a top surface 502 and a bottomsurface 504, and a through hole 506 which is centrally located inindexing plate 500. Top surface 502 of indexing plate 500 comprises acircular ring of detents 518 positioned around through hole 506. Eachdetent of the ring of detents 518 is slopped or ramped on the left-handside to provide stop mechanism in a clock-wise direction. In someembodiments, ring of detents 518 comprise 1 to 12 detents, such as,e.g., 1 to 2 detents, 1 to 4 detents, 2 to 6 detents, 4 to 6 detents, 2to 8 detents, 4 to 8 detents, 6 to 8 detents, 2 to 10 detents, 4 to 10detents, 6 to 10 detents, 8 to 10, detents, 2 to 12 detents, 4 to 12detents, 6 to 12 detents, 8 to 12 detents, or 10 to 12 detents. In someembodiments, and as shown in FIG. 73, detents 518 are the same orsimilar size. In some embodiments, ring of detents 518 can be of two ormore different sizes. Bottom surface 504 of indexing plate 500 includesa first indexing pin 520 and a second indexing pin 521 extendperpendicularly from bottom surface 504. First and second indexing pins520, 521 are configured to align and insert into indexing holes 120, 121of device case 56 in a manner that properly orientates device caseadaptor Cl to device case 56 in and prevents misalignment while secured.

As shown in FIGS. 72-74, adaptor plate 530, is typically disc-shaped andcomprises a top surface 532 and a bottom surface 534. Top surface 532 ofadaptor plate 530 comprises a coupler 543 that is centrally located andextends perpendicularly from top surface 532. Coupler 543 comprises abody 549, a circumferential groove 548, and a head 544, which includes aleading edge 546 and a shoulder 550. Coupler 543 can be of any lengthwith most of this length variation due to the length of body 549.Circumferential groove 548 is located in between body 549 and head 544.As illustrated in FIGS. 72-74, head 244 is configured to conform orsubstantially conform to the perimeter or circumferential shape ofsocket 222. Top surface 534 of adaptor plate 530 comprises a threadedscrew 508 which includes a grove 542 that is centrally located andextends perpendicularly from bottom surface 506. Retaining clip 540 issecured in groove 542.

In some embodiments, adaptor plate 530 can further comprise one or moredetent plunders to controllably rotate and temporarily fix the rotationof adaptor plate 530 relative to sidewall frame member 92 of device case56. As shown in FIGS. 72-74, which illustrates only two of the sixdetent plungers in this example embodiment, detent plunger 550 includesa detent cylinder 552 comprising an open end 554 and open threaded end556 opposite open end 554, and a detent ball 560 a detent compressionspring 562. Detent ball 560 and detent compression spring 562 arecaptured within detent cylinder 552 by a set screw secured to openthreaded end 556, and detent compression spring 562 outwardly biasingdetent ball 560 toward open end 554 of detent cylinder 552 in a mannerthat causes detent ball 560 to protrude from open end 554 of detentcylinder 552 One or more detent plungers 550 are located on a side thatwill be in contact with of the underside portion of indexing plate 500.One or more detents 518 of indexing plate 500 are aligned in a mannerthat detent ball 560 protruding from an open end 554 will be seated ineach of the one or more detents 518 of indexing plate 500 whenassembled. This detent mechanism ensures that adaptor Cl will remainsecured in place and that threaded screw 508 of adaptor plate 530 willnot become loosened over time.

As shown in FIGS. 8A, 11-13, 17 & 18, third engagement surface 64 canadditionally include various ports 82, 84, 326, 328 for access tospeakers, microphones, audio jacks, volume, switches, power supply, etc.Ports 82, 84, 326, 328, can be uncovered or be associated with threadedsealing caps. In addition ports 82, 84, 326, 328 can be directlyincorporated into third engagement surface 64 of sidewall frame member92 or be incorporated in a sealing plate 87 which attached to thirdengagement surface 64. For example, in some embodiment, and referring toFIGS. 18 & 20, sidewall frame member 92 is configured to receive sealingplate 87 comprising ports 82, 84, 326, 328, fastened to an edge ofsidewall frame member 92. As shown in FIGS. 18 & 20, threaded inserts105 are inserted through holes in sidewall frame member 92 forthreadably receiving screws 100′ therein for fastening the sealing plate87 thereto. As shown in FIGS. 18 & 20, sealing plate 87 includes one ormore through ports 82, 84, 326, 328, align to one or more speakers,microphones, audio jacks, volume control, switches, power supply ofdevice D. As shown in FIGS. 18 & 19, one or more through ports, asexemplified by through ports 326, 328 can be configured to threadablyreceives one or more sealing caps 77 and 80, which cover the one or morethrough ports. As shown in FIGS. 18 & 19, one or more through ports, asexemplified by through ports 82, 84 may not be associated with sealingcaps 77 and 80, relying on gasket member 94 to provide a water-tightseal like a water-resistant seal or waterproof seal. Sealing caps 77 and80 can be flexibly connected by a lanyard 89 that permits one cap to beremoved and held by lanyard 89 to the other cap still threaded withinsealing plate 87. Further, lanyard 89 permits sealing caps 77 and 80 tofreely rotate for threading sealing caps 77 and 80 into and out of theirrespective threaded holes. Sealing plate 87 acts provides a seal betweensealing caps 77 and 80 and gasket member 94, which will be described inmore detail below in reference to FIGS. 20-23.

In some embodiments, where rail 52 is configured as device case 56 fordevice D, such device case 56 is preferably water resistant orwaterproof. For example, in some embodiments, and referring to FIGS. 18& 21-27, assemble device case 56 includes a gasket member, for examplegasket member 94, fitted around an outer perimeter of device D. Gasketmember 94 functions to form a barrier between device D and the outsideenvironment, thereby providing water resistant or waterproofcapabilities. In some embodiments, and referring to FIG. 19, gasketmember 294 comprises a single component including a side portion 296that fits around an outer perimeter of device D and a bottom portion 298that covers the back of a device, which functions similar to bottomcover 98, discussed below. Gasket member 294 includes one or more openportions 299, for example 299, 299′ of FIG. 17, configured to receive atransparent insert, such as a glass insert, to permit the sight and useof touch screens, cameras, flashes, flashlights, or other light emittingor detecting devices. All or part of gasket member 94, 194 is made of anelastomeric material or other deformable or sealable material thatdeforms under the pressure of assembled rail 52 to fill gaps and createa water resistant or water-proof interior space for containing device D,such as Buna-N rubber material, fluoroelastomer material (e.g., VITON),silicon, or other appropriate material or combination of materials.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, and referring to FIGS. 11-13 & 18,device case 56 further optionally comprises a top cover 86 placed atopdevice D, and/or further optionally comprises a bottom cover 98 placedbeneath device D. Both top cover 86 and bottom cover 98 function to forma barrier between device D and the outside environment, therebyproviding water resistant or waterproof capabilities. In addition, bothtop cover 86 and bottom cover 98 can optionally include a transparentportion, such as a window 99, to permit the sight and use of touchscreens, cameras, flashes, flashlights, or other light requiring,emitting or detecting devices.

A water-tight seal like a water-resistant seal or waterproof seal isfurther illustrated in detail in FIGS. 21-27. As shown in FIG. 24, firstframe member 88 and second frame member 90 capture sidewall frame member92 between the two. One or more ridges 108 or other protrusions orshoulders are formed on or near the inner perimeter of sidewall framemember 92, and is configured to be received within slot 109 (or otherconcavity or step) of first frame member 88, which rests upon ridges 108and is configured to receive second frame member 90, which similarlyrests upon a second ridge 108′ (or on the opposite side on ridge 108).As first frame member 88 is drawn toward second frame member 90 bytightening the screws 100 (with a second screw, not shown, threaded intoa binding barrel 101 through a countersunk hole 103), gasket member 94is compressed until first and second frame members 88, 90 bear againsttheir respective ridges 108, 108′ of sidewall frame member 92, or untilgasket member 94 can no longer be compressed, e.g., even if there is aslight gap between first and second frame members 88, 90 and theirrespective ridges 108, 108′. In this example, binding barrel 101 acts asa standoff between first and second frame members 88, 90 that is sizedso that it limits the compression of gasket member 94.

As shown in FIGS. 24 & 25, each of first and second frame members 88, 90includes an overhang 104 extending inwardly about an inner perimeter andconfigured directly or indirectly (e.g., through gasket member 94) tobear against device D and/or if present top cover 86 and bottom cover98, respectively. In embodiments where top cover 86 and bottom cover 98are not present in device case 56, as shown in FIGS. 24 & 25, gasketmember 94 can be configured so that overhangs 104 of first and secondframe members 88, 90 can bear down on gasket member 94, which in turnbears down against device D, enhancing the seal and protecting againstdevice D against the external environment like moisture. Further, aridge 107 formed adjacent to inner perimeter extending orthogonally fromagainst device D, such that against device D is protected from impactdue to ridge 107 protruding above against device D.

In embodiments where top cover 86 and bottom cover 98 are present indevice case 56, FIGS. 24 & 25, top and bottom perimeters of gasketmember 94 can optionally comprise a groove or step 106 to receive topand bottom covers 86, 98. In addition, gasket member 94 can beconfigured to fold over perimetral edges of top and bottom covers 86, 98at groove or step 106, so that overhangs 104 of first and second framemembers 88, 90 can bear down on gasket member 94, which in turn bearsdown against top and bottom covers 86, 98, enhancing the water-tightseal like a water-resistant seal or waterproof seal in device case 56.Further, a ridge 107 formed adjacent to inner perimeter extendingorthogonally from the plane of top cover 86 and bottom cover 98, suchthat top cover 86 and bottom cover 98 are protected from impact due toridge 107 protruding above top cover 86 and bottom cover 98.

FIGS. 18-23 illustrate an embodiment for sealing the various data,audio, power, etc. jacks of present on device D, yet permitting accessto these jacks without compromising the waterproof or water-resistantproperties of device case 56. As shown in FIG. 20, a portion of one ormore of first frame member 88, second frame member 90, and sidewallframe member 92 are concavitally shaped to form a mortise portion 342configured to receive a tenon portion 344 of sealing plate 87. Sidewallframe member 92 includes an opening configured to receive sealing plate87. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 18 & 21, sidewall framemember 92 includes through ports 338, 340, 341 configured to receivesealing plate 87 in a manner where sealing plate 87 is in directopposition to sidewall frame member 92.

As shown in FIG. 20, sealing plate 87 is configured to be detachablyconnected to device case 56 by threading screws 100′ through sealingplate 87 and into threaded holes 334 and 336. As shown in FIGS. 20 & 21sealing plate 87 includes through ports 326 and 328 formed throughsealing plate 87 to permit insertion therethrough various cables forconnection to various jacks J1 and J2 of device D (e.g., the audio jack,the data and/or power jack, etc.). Sealing plate 87 can also includethrough ports 82 and 84 formed through sealing plate 87 to permit soundtherethrough, for example, sound emanating from a speaker of device D orsound being picked up by a microphone present on device D. Hollow bosses322 and 324 extend from a back portion of sealing plate 87 and are inalignment with through ports 326 and 328, respectively. Through ports338, 340 are configured to received therein hollow bosses 322 and 324.

Referring now to FIGS. 20-23, in some embodiments, leading edges 330 and332 of each of hollow bosses 322 and 324 of sealing plate 87 areconfigured to be pushed against gasket member 94, with leading edges 330and 332 deforming gasket member 94 so that a leak-tight seal is formedbetween through ports 322 and 324 and gasket member 94. Through ports326 and 328 can be threaded and receive sealing caps 77 and 80. Each ofsealing caps 77 and 80 include an O-ring 312, 314 to provide aleak-tight seal between sealing caps 77 and 80 and their respectivethrough ports 326 and 328. Lanyard 89 is tied about each of sealing caps77 and 80 connecting the two, yet permitting independent twisting ofeach of caps 77 and 80 so that one can be threaded in and out withoutaffecting the other.

Referring to FIG. 21, in some embodiments, gasket member 94 includeshollow portions 346 and 348 which are formed partially through gasketmember 94, leaving a thin, yet water-proof wall to permit sound totravel therethrough, for communications through a microphone/speakerport P. Ports 82 and 84 align with hollow portions 346 and 348 to permittransmission of sound therethrough. Looking more closely at screws 100′,which fasten sealing plate 87 to sidewall frame member 92 by threadinginto threaded inserts 105.

FIGS. 18, 26 & 27 illustrate button inserts 96 which can selectively bebrought into contact with respective button protrusions B formed ongasket member 94, which permit pushing of various buttons on device Dwhile still maintaining a water resistant or waterproof properties ofdevice case 56. For example, button insert 96′ contacts protrusion 358on gasket member 94 for activating button B1 once pushed in by a user.Likewise, button inserts 96″ and 96′″ contact protrusions 356 and 354 ongasket member 94, respectively, control a rocket switch B2. Also, buttoninsert 96″″ contacts protrusion 360 on gasket member 94 for activatingbutton B3 once pushed in by a user.

Looking at FIGS. 28-45, an exemplary example of bracket 54 isillustrated. Bracket 54 includes first jaw member 70 comprising an innersurface and an outer surface 154 and second jaw member 72 comprising aninner surface and an outer surface 156. Inner surface of first jawmember 70 comprises a first clamping portion 122 including one or moreengagement bosses 74 and a first mating portion 150. Inner surface ofsecond jaw member 72 comprises a second clamping portion 124 includingone or more engagement bosses 75 and a second mating portion 152.Bracket 54 can also include a back plate 73 spanning between first jawmember 70 and second jaw member 72.

In preferred embodiments, first clamping portion 122 of first jaw member70 comprises two engagement bosses 74, 74′ and second clamping portion124 of second jaw member 72 comprises two engagement bosses 75, 75′.First jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 are fixed together in aclamping arrangement, with first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72configured to slidably translate toward or away from one another. Thismovement brings first clamping portion 122 including one or moreengagement bosses 74 of first jaw member 70 toward or away from thecorresponding second clamping portion 124 including one or moreengagement bosses 75 of second jaw member 72. Because first clampingportion 122 including one or more engagement bosses 74 are opposed tosecond clamping portion 124 including one or more engagement bosses 75,their respective first and second jaws 70, 72 are configured to bebrought toward each other in a clamp-like action. Insertion, or evenpartial insertion, of one or more engagement bosses 74, 75 into theirrespective one or more engagement slots 58 creates a strong clampingengagement between bracket 54 and rail 52, preventing separation of thetwo even under great force.

Although bracket 54 is illustrated as having two engagement bosses 74,74′ on first clamping portion 122 on first jaw 70, and two engagementbosses 75, 75′ on second clamping portion 124 of second jaw 72configured to engage within one or more engagement slots 58, engagementbosses 74, 75 are optional and modifiable. In addition, although apreferred embodiment of bracket 54 includes engagement bosses 74, 74′,75, 75′, more or fewer engagement bosses 74, 75 can be arranged onbracket 54. In at least one embodiment, engagement bosses 74, 75 can beexcluded and replaced with an alternative engagement face, such as twoopposing smooth faces, two opposing knurled faces, two opposing toothedfaces, two opposing coated/covered faces (e.g., a layer of rubber orother elastomeric material), and/or any combination thereof, and/orother configuration. In this example, bracket 54 can clamp to any numberof attachment points compatible with the particular type of engagementface configuration. which may be on a rail or other object/base.

Bracket 54 is capable of being clamped to rail 52 at any point where oneor more engagement bosses 74, 75 can engage one or more engagement slots58. To illustrate this capability, as shown in FIGS. 9 & 10, bracket 54is shown engaged within a first engagement slot 58, which is located atone of the short sides of rail 54. Arrow 362 illustrates the movement ofbracket 54 from being solely engaged within first engagement slot 58(which is an elongated slot capable of receiving all of one or moreengagement bosses 74, 75 simultaneously) to being engaged within bothfirst engagement slot 58 and second engagement slot 58′, with at leastone engagement boss 74, 75 of one or more engagement bosses 74, 75 beingengaged within first engagement slot 58, and at least one engagementboss 74, 75 of one or more engagement bosses 74, 75 being engaged withinsecond engagement slot 58′, with bracket 54 spanning the gap betweenfirst engagement slot 58 and second engagement slot 58′. Of course, whenin the locked or clamped configuration, bracket 54 cannot be simply slidto the left as indicated by arrow 362. First, bracket 54 must beunlocked to disengage one or more engagement bosses 74, 75 from firstengagement slot 58 achieved by separating first jaw member 70 fromsecond jaw member 72 (which will be discussed in greater detail below).Next, bracket 54 can be either slid over rail 52 or removed altogetherfrom rail 52 to reposition at least one engagement boss 74, 75 of one ormore engagement bosses 74, 75 overtop second engagement slot 58′ and atleast one engagement boss 74, 75 of one or more engagement bosses 74, 75overtop first engagement slot 58. Thereafter, first jaw member 70 andsecond jaw member 72 are manually compressed toward each other toreengage one or more engagement bosses 74, 75 to rail 52, within firstengagement slot 58 and second engagement slot 58′.

As best shown in FIGS. 28, 32, 34, 35, 36, 40, 42 & 43, within a throatregion of bracket 52 (between first jaw member 70 and second jaw member72) is a recessed portion formed in first jaw 70 and a recessed portionformed in second jaw 72, to provide clearance for third engagementsurface 64 of rail 54 or sidewall frame member 92. In addition, recessedportions also prevent suction forces to occur when bracket 54 is in theclosed configuration as well as facilitate removal of debris, therebyensuring and maintaining proper operability of bracket 54.

Referring to FIGS. 29, 33, 37, & 41 back plate 73 of bracket 54,extending cantilevered from first jaw member 70, provides additionalguidance and strength to bracket 54 as it is clamped down on rail 52 andopened to release bracket from rail 52. Back plate 73 includes one ormore adaptor attachment points 123, for securing another device orcomponent thereof to bracket 54 using compatible mounting systems. Backplate 73 also comprises indexing holes 120, 121 to facilitate properlyorientation of another device or component thereof being attached toback plate 73 as well as to prevent misalignment of an attached deviceor component thereof while secured to bracket 54. In some embodiments,adaptor attachment point 123 can be any standard screw thread known inthe art, including, without limitation, 1/4-20 UNC thread, a 3/8-16 UNCthread, or any similar screw thread standards known in the art.

Back plate 73 comprising one or more adaptor attachment points 123 andindexing holes 120, 121 can be employed to attach an adaptor to bracket54. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS. 46 & 47, a bracketadaptor A1, in this case, a GoPro adaptor, comprises an adaptor screw400 and an adaptor base 410, where adaptor base 410 is secured to backplate 73 by threading adaptor screw 400 into attachment point 123.Adaptor screw 400 comprises a disc 402 having a top surface 404 and abottom surface 406 and a threaded portion 408 centrally located onbottom surface 406 and extending perpendicularly from the bottom surface406. Adaptor base 410 comprises a top surface 412, a bottom surface 414,an attachment portion 416 and a through hole 419 configured to alignwith attachment point 123 once adaptor base 410 is properly oriented toback plate 73. Bottom surface 414 includes a first protrusion 420 and asecond protrusion 421 extend perpendicularly from bottom surface. Firstand second protrusions 420, 421 are configured to align and insert intoindexing holes 120, 121 in a manner that properly orientates adaptor A1to back plate 73 and prevents misalignment while secured.

A bracket adaptor, e.g., bracket adaptor A1, can further comprise adetent mechanism to controllably rotate and temporarily fix the rotationof adaptor screw 400 relative to back plate 73 of bracket 54. In someembodiments, detent mechanism includes a detent plunger or equivalentmounted to bracket adaptor A1 and one or more detents 418 (hemisphericaldepressions formed as concavities) positioned on an underside portion ofadaptor screw 400. In some embodiments, and as discussed above, detentplunger include a detent cylinder comprising an open end 424 and an openthreaded end opposite open end 424, and a detent ball and a detentcompression spring. The detent ball and the detent compression springare captured within the detent cylinder by a set screw secured to theopen threaded end, with the detent compression spring outwardly biasingthe detent ball toward the open end of the detent cylinder in a mannerthat causes the detent ball to protrude from the open end of the detentcylinder. One or more detent plungers are located on a side that will bein contact with of the underside portion of adaptor screw 400. One ormore detents 418 of adaptor screw 400 are aligned in a manner that thedetent ball protruding from an open end 424 will be seated in each ofthe one or more detents 418 as adaptor screw 400 is screwed intoattachment point 123 and the underside portion of adaptor screw 400comes into close proximity to the side of adaptor A1 that will be incontact with of the underside portion of adaptor screw 400. This detentmechanism ensures that bracket adaptor A1 will remain secured in placeand adaptor screw 400 will not become loosened over time.

As best seen in FIGS. 41 & 45, back plate 73 extends from first jawmember 70 toward second jaw member 72. Second jaw member 72 includes aback-plate recess 128 configured to receive back plate 73, permittingback plate 73 to slide within back-plate recess 128. Of course, thisarrangement can be reversed, where, in one example, back plate 73 iscantilevered from second jaw member 72 and back-plate recess 128 isformed on first jaw member 70. Back-plate recess 128 includes a bottomwall 158 and sidewalls 160, 162, 164. In a preferred embodiment, and asshown in FIGS. 41 & 45, bottom wall 158 is arranged as being planarparallel to the direction of travel of back plate 73. Sidewalls 160,162, 164 are configured to form three contiguous and/or adjacent sides.Sidewalls 160, 162 aid in limiting side-to-side tilt of first jaw member70 relative to second jaw member 72 when in a locked configuration, dueto back plate 73 contacting one or both of sidewalls 160, 162. Further,bottom wall 158 prevents back tilt of first jaw member 70 relative tosecond jaw member 72 due to back plate 73 contacting bottom wall 158.This is particularly important is designs where one or more engagementbosses 74 are spread apart from one or more engagement bosses 75 due toback tilt. Thus, because side-to-side tilt and back tilt is sufficientlylimited or prohibited, one or more engagement bosses 74, 75 areprevented from disengaging their respective engagement slots 58,creating an exceptionally strong clamp for secure mounting on bracket 54of further accessories.

Although back plate 73 is an optional feature, without back plate 73,more stress would be carried by pin assembly of bracket 54. Nonetheless,bracket 54 would still function in an embodiment without back plate 73.

Referring to FIGS. 40, 44, 45 & 51-54, movement of first jaw member 70relative to second jaw member 72 is guided by a pin assembly comprisinga guide pin 110 and a latching guide pin 112. A pin assembly of bracket52 comprising guide pin 110 and latching pin 112 serve to guide movementof first and second jaw members 70, 72 relative to each other. Lookinginitially at guide pin 110, this component is cylindrical in shape andcomprises a first end and a second end, the second end comprising anotch 195 and a threaded bore formed axially through second end andconfigured to receive a screw 114.

Referring to FIGS. 40-45 & 51-54, guide pin 110 is positioned within aguide pin bore 142 of first jaw 70, with the first end of guide pin 110facing outer surface 154. In some embodiments, and as shown in FIGS.40-45 & 51-54, guide pin bore 142 is a through hole formedperpendicularly through first jaw member 70 from first mating portion150 to outer surface 154. Guide pin 110 is configured to slide withinguide pin bore 142; thus, the tolerance of the two parts should bedesigned to form a sliding fit. A guide pin counterbore 146 is formedperpendicularly on second mating portion 152 of second jaw member 72 andis configured to receive the second end portion of guide pin 110. Abottom surface of guide pin counterbore 146 includes a step 147 that isconfigured to receive notch 195 of the first end of guide pin 110. Thisnotch 195 and step 147 configuration prevents guide pin 110 fromrotating and/or becoming misaligned within guide pin bore 142 and guidepin counterbore 146. Guide pin counterbore 146 also includes throughhole formed perpendicularly though bottom surface of guide pincounterbore 146 to outer surface 156. Through hole of guide pincounterbore 146 is configured to receive therethrough screw 114. Screw114 inserts through second jaw member 72 and threads tightly intothreaded bore of second end of guide pin 110 to fasten guide pin 110 tosecond jaw member 72. A countersink can be formed on outer surface 156of second jaw member 72 to provide clearance for receiving screw 114head flush to or beneath the plane of outer surface 156.

Once secured, screw 114 (or other appropriate fastener, adhesive, weld,braze, or other appropriate bonding or fastening means) firmly holdsguide pin 110 within the larger hole of guide pin counterbore 146. Inthis way, guide pin 110 serves to guide the movement of first jaw member70 relative to second jaw member 72 with guide pin 110 held to secondjaw member 72 via screw 114. Although described as being perpendicularto first mating portion 150, guide pin bore 142 and guide pincounterbore 146 can also be oriented parallel to the direction of jawtravel, if first mating portion 150 is irregular or angled.

Looking at latching pin 112, and as shown in FIGS. 48 & 49, latching pin112 is cylindrical in shape and comprises a first end 192 and a secondend 194, second end 194 comprising a notch 198 and a threaded boreformed axially through second end 194 and configured to receive a screw116. As shown if FIGS. 48 & 49, latching pin 112 further comprises abolt channel 188, a latch bolt hole 190, and a bolt stop 196. Boltchannel 188 runs along the length of latching pin 112 to an appropriatedepth to define bolt stop 196 on a shelf-like area. Latch bolt hole 190is radially formed within bolt channel 188 nearest second end 194,perpendicular to and through the longitudinal axis of latching pin 112.Bolt channel 188 is formed closer in proximity first end 192 of latchingpin 112 (e.g., bolt channel 188 is offset from the middle of latchingpin 112, and toward first end 192). As discussed below, latching pin 112additionally receives latch bolt pin 174 of latch bolt 140 through latchbolt hole 190.

Referring to FIGS. 40-45, 48, 49 & 51-54, latching pin 112 is positionedwithin a latching pin bore 144 of first jaw 72, with first end 192 oflatching pin 112 facing outer surface 156. In some embodiments, and asshown in FIGS. 40-45, 48, 49 & 51-54, latching pin bore 144 is a throughhole formed perpendicularly through second jaw member 72 from secondmating portion 152 to outer surface 156. Latching pin 112 is configuredto slide within latching pin bore 144; thus, the tolerance of the twoparts should be designed to form a sliding fit. A latching pincounterbore 148 is formed perpendicularly on first mating portion 150 offirst jaw member 70 and is configured to receive second end 194 oflatching pin 112. A bottom surface of latching pin counterbore 148includes a step 149 that is configured to receive notch 198 of first end192 of latching pin 112. This notch 198 and step 149 configurationprevents latching pin 112 from rotating and/or becoming misalignedwithin latching pin bore 144 and latching pin counterbore 148. Latchingpin counterbore 148 also includes through hole formed perpendicularlythough bottom surface of latching pin counterbore 148 to outer surface154. Through hole of latching pin counterbore 148 is configured toreceive therethrough a screw 116 that is threaded into the threaded boreformed axially through send end 194 of latching pin 112. Screw 116inserts through first jaw member 70 and threads tightly into threadedbore of second end 194 of latching pin 112 to fasten latching pin 112 tofirst jaw member 70. A countersink can be formed on outer surface 154 offirst jaw member 70 to provide clearance for receiving screw 116 headflush to or beneath the plane of outer surface 154.

Once secured, screw 116 (or other appropriate fastener, adhesive, weld,braze, or other appropriate bonding or fastening means) firmly holdslatching pin 112 within the larger hole of latching pin counterbore 148.In this way, latching pin 112 serves to guide the movement of second jawmember 72 relative to the first jaw member 70 with latching pin 112 heldto first jaw member 70 via screw 116. As discussed further below, butfor a bolt 174 checking its motion, latching pin 112 would be permittedto slide up and down axially within latching pin bore 144. Althoughdescribed as being perpendicular to second mating portion 152, latchingpin bore 144 and latching pin counterbore 148 can also be orientedparallel to the direction of jaw travel, if second mating portion 152 isirregular or angled. Through hole of latching pin counterbore 148 isconfigured to receive therethrough a screw 116 that is threaded into athreaded bore formed axially through latching pin 112.

As shown in FIGS. 44, 45, & 51-54, jaw compression springs 166, 168 ofbracket 52 are located between first jaw member 70 and second jaw member72. Jaw compression springs 166, 168 are positioned in bracket 54 by afirst and a second ends within respective locating holes formed in firstand second mating portions 150, 152 of first and second jaw members 70,72 respectively. As discussed further below, but for a bolt 174 checkingits motion, jaw compression springs 166, 168 provide a separating biasthat forces first jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72 apart.

As best shown in FIGS. 44 & 45, a latch bolt assembly comprises a latchbolt 140 and a latch bolt bore 118 where a latch bolt 140 is capable ofsliding within latch bolt bore 118 to lock and unlock bracket 54. Insome embodiments, latch bolt assembly is housed within of second jawmember 72. Referring to FIG. 50, latch bolt 140 of latch bolt assemblyincludes a cylindrical body 176 with a latch bolt pin 174 protrudingaxially from an end of cylindrical body 176, where latch bolt pin 174 issmaller in diameter than cylindrical body 176 forming an annularshoulder 184. An elongated channel 172 runs along the length ofcylindrical body 176 to form an enclosure for latch bolt compressionspring 170 with a spring seat 182 being formed within elongated channel172 nearest annular shoulder 184. Optionally, and as shown in FIGS. 44,45 & 51-54, latch bolt compression spring 170 further comprises a springinsert 169. A limiter slot 178 is formed within elongated channel 172,where elongated channel 172 and limiter slot 178 are formed throughcylindrical body 176 perpendicular to and through the longitudinal axisof cylinder body 176 (i.e., along the radial direction), defining afirst limiter wall 180 and a second limiter wall 181. Limiter slot 178prevents latch bolt compression spring 170 from contacting guide pin 110and screw 114.

As best shown in FIGS. 44 & 45, latch bolt 140 engages with latching pin112 to lock and unlock bracket 54. As shown in FIGS. 44, 45 & 51-54,latch bolt pin 174 rides within a bolt channel 188 of latching pin 112.At least a portion of latch bolt pin 174 is biased to reside within boltchannel 188 by latch bolt compression spring 170. In operation, and inthe closed configuration, latching pin 112 additionally receives latchbolt pin 174 of latch bolt 140 through latch bolt hole 190.

As best shown in FIGS. 45 & 51-52, both latching pin bore 144 andlatching pin counterbore 148 are intersected (preferably through thecenter and perpendicular to both their longitudinal axes) by a latchbolt bore 118. Latch bolt bore 118 is a counterbored through holedrilled through the length of second jaw member 72, with a smalldiameter portion 118′ intersecting latching pin bore 144. The fulldiameter portion of latch bolt bore 118 is configured to receive latchbolt 140, latch bolt pin 174 first, with latch bolt pin 174 positionedwithin, and configured to slide within, the small diameter portion 118′.A rotating tab 132 is fastened to an end 177 of latch bolt 140 by screw134 into threaded hole 171, and is permitted to rotate relative to latchbolt 140. Optional detent structures are formed within a cup on rotatingtab 132 and on end 177 on latch bolt 140, which permits rotating tab 132to rotate, yet give a user the option to stop rotation at the detent'sdiscrete angles so that rotating tab 132 can be pushed or pulled, bydeploying or stowing rotating tab 132 within a tab recess 133. In thisexample embodiment, a detent ball assembly 131 includes four recesses186 formed in rotating tab 132 and configured to each receive a detentball 135 each pushed into respective recesses 186 by a spring 136 withina cup at an end of latch bolt 140. As rotating tab 132 is rotated,recesses 186 move out of alignment with detent balls 135, detent balls135 are pushed against springs 136, compressing them, until detent balls135 realigns with neighboring recess 186, catching detent balls 135which also temporarily catches the motion of rotating tab 132.

In an example assembly method, latching pin 112 is fastened to first jawmember 70. Guide pin 110 is fastened to second jaw member 72. Jawcompression springs 166, 168 are each seated within their respectivelocating holes. Latch bolt compression spring 170 is positioned withinelongated channel 172 of latching bolt 140. First jaw member 70 isinitially manually coupled to second jaw member 72 by inserting latchingpin 112 into latching pin bore 144 (guide pin 110 is not yet inserted).Jaw compression springs 166, 168 are then manually compressed betweenfirst and second jaw members 70, 72 to bring latch bolt hole 190 intoalignment with small diameter portion 118′ of latch bolt bore 118. Whileholding this alignment, latch bolt 140 is inserted into latch bolt bore118 with elongated channel 172 facing toward second mating portion 152,and with latch bolt pin 174 inserted though cylindrical latch bolt hole190 and small diameter portion 118′, with terminus 175 protrudingexternally from small diameter portion 118′. Screw 114 is insertedthrough guide pin counterbore 146, transversely through limiter slot 178of elongated channel 172, and threaded into guide pin 110 (where theguide pin 110 was inserted through guide pin bore 142 from the outside).In this manner, screw 114 traps latch bolt compression spring 170between spring seat 184 and shank 115 and/or threads of screw 114, withlatch bolt bore 118 enclosing elongated channel 172 to restrict latchbolt compression spring 170 within elongated channel 172.

Once screw 114 is threaded into guide pin 110, latch bolt 140 is trappedwithin latch bolt bore 118. This is because screw 114 is insertedcompletely through limiter slot 178, with screw 114 configured totraverse the length of limiter slot 178 (with latch bolt 140 beingpushed or pulled relative to screw 114, manually and by latch boltcompression spring 170). As screw 114 reaches an end of limiter slot178, screw 114 shank or threads contacts one of limiter walls 180, 181,which checks the travel of latch bolt 140. In this way, the travel(e.g., axial translation) of latch bolt 140 limited to the length oflimiter slot 178.

Assembly of the components of bracket 54 create a positive latchingmechanism by which first jaw member 70 is slidably translatable relativeto second jaw member 72 by which bracket 54 can adopt a closedconfiguration (or locked configuration) or an open configuration (orunlocked configuration). In an open or unlocked configuration, as shownin FIGS. 36-43, 52 & 53, latch bolt 140 is retracted and against thebias of latch bolt compression spring 170, and first jaw member 70 andsecond jaw member 72 are forced apart by the force of jaw compressionsprings 166, 168. Retraction of latch bolt 140 also causes rotating tab132 to extend from bracket 54. In an open or unlocked configuration,first mating portion 150 and/or one or more engagement bosses 74 offirst jaw member 70 are the furthest apart from second mating portion152 and/or one or more engagement bosses 75 of first jaw member 72. Inan open or unlocked configuration, bracket 54 can be easily removed fromrail 52 and/or repositioned to a different location of rail 52.

In a closed or locked configuration, as shown in FIGS. 28-35, 51 & 54,latch bolt 140 is forced into latch bolt hole 190 of latching pin 112 bythe force of latch bolt compression spring 170 and first jaw member 70and second jaw member 72 are in close proximity to each other andagainst the bias of jaw compression springs 166, 168. In addition,movement of latch bolt 140 into latch bolt hole 190 causes rotating tab132 to become seated in tab recess 133 of bracket 54. In a closed orlocked configuration, first mating portion 150 and/or one or moreengagement bosses 74 of first jaw member 70 are in close proximity tosecond mating portion 152 and/or one or more engagement bosses 75 offirst jaw member 72. In a closed or locked configuration, bracket 54 canbe secured in place on rail 52.

In operation, referring to FIGS. 51 & 52, and presuming that bracket 54is initially in a locked configuration as shown in FIG. 51, a usergrasps bracket 54 (and/or rail 52 and/or any appropriate attachedaccessory or purchase) and manually presses in terminus 175 of latchbolt pin 174, which forces latch bolt 140 to translate, as shown byarrow 159 such that rotating tab 132 is pushed out of tab recess 133, asshown by arrow 137. Tab recess 133 provides a cavity within whichrotating tab 132 normally rests when in a locked configuration, so thatrotating tab 132 is not inadvertently rotated and/or becomes snagged,thus unintentionally causing bracket 54 to unlock. Additionally, tabrecess 133 can be expanded to permit locking when rotating tab 132 isrotated ninety degrees. With rotating tab 132 positioned out of tabrecess 133, a user can rotate rotating tab 132 relative to latch bolt140, so that rotating tab 132 extends beyond and/or at a sufficientdistance from body of bracket 54 to permit a user to manually furtherpull rotating tab 132, thus further pulling latch bolt 140 axially outof latch bolt bore 118. The axial travel of latch bolt 140 is outwardlylimited by screw 114 contacting the limiter wall 180. Latch bolt 140 isspring biased inward, such that latch bolt 140 is biased to retract intolatch bolt bore 118.

When in a locked configuration (as in FIGS. 51, 52 & 54), latch bolt pin174 is inserted through latch bolt hole 190 (generally fully through,but at least partially within) of latching pin 112, which prohibitslatching guide pin 112 from traveling axially within latching pin bore144. Preferably, terminus 175 extends out of small diameter portion 118′to permit a user to press terminus 175, which serves as a button and/oractuator to initiate a first step of an unlocking process. As a userpulls rotating tab 132, latch bolt pin 174 of latch bolt 140 is pulledout of latch bolt hole 190 of latching pin 112 such that terminus 175 ispositioned within bolt channel 188, where limiter wall 180 contactingscrew 114 prevents terminus 175 from being further retracted out of boltchannel 188. Thus, terminus 175 (and a portion of latch bolt pin 174near terminus 175) remain within bolt channel 188, when in a second stepin an unlocking process is completed and bracket 54 is in the unlockedconfiguration. This two-step unlocking process reduces inadvertentunlocking events, due to a user having to both push terminus 175 toexpose rotating tab 132 and then pulling rotating tab 132 fully pull outlatch bolt 140 to open bracket 54 (i.e., the open or unlockedconfiguration).

Jaw compression springs 166, 168 apply a continuous bias to separatefirst jaw member 70 and second jaw member 72, the motion of which ischecked by latch bolt pin 174, with either terminus 175 being positionedwithin bolt channel 188 of latching pin 112 and/or latch bolt pin 174positioned within latch bolt hole 190 of latching pin 112. When latchbolt pin 174 is positioned within latch bolt hole 190, bracket 54 is inthe locked configuration, where first jaw member 70 and second jawmember 72 are in close proximity to one another. Once latch bolt pin isremoved from latch bolt hole 190 to position terminus 175 within boltchannel 188 of latching pin 112, first jaw member 70 with attachedlatching pin 112 is permitted to travel away from second jaw member 72.The distance of travel of latching guide pin 112 is limited by thelength of bolt channel 188.

As a user pulls rotating tab 132, jaw compression springs 166, 168 pushfirst and second jaw members 70, 72 apart, snapping to the openconfiguration where first and second jaw members 70, 72 are furthestaway from one another. As latching pin 112 moves relative to terminus175, latch bolt pin 174 become misaligned with latch bolt hole 190 oflatching pin 112 and become aligned with bolt stop 196 latching pin 112(which is, in this example embodiment, the floor of bolt channel 188).Thus, when a user releases rotating tab 132, latch bolt compressionspring 170 within latch bolt 140 forces terminus 175 into contact withbolt stop 196. So long as latch bolt pin 174 is at least partiallymisaligned with latch bolt hole 190, latch bolt 140 will protrude fromlatch bolt bore 118, holding rotating tab 132 out from body of bracket54.

To lock (or latch) bracket 54 (on rail 52 or in isolated), a usermanually pinches first jaw member 70 toward second jaw member 72. Asterminus 175 slides across bolt stop 196 of latching pin 112, latch boltpin 174 becomes aligned once again with latch bolt hole 190 (due to thelatching guide pin 112 moving deeper within latching pin bore 144),latch bolt compression spring 170 (still under compression withinelongated channel 172) immediately forces latch bolt pin 174 throughlatch bolt hole 190, immediately locking first and second jaw members70, 72 together.

As discussed briefly above, rotating tab 132 is capable of rotatingrelative to latch bolt 140 when rotating tab 132 is pushed out of tabrecess 133, to permit a user to reposition rotating tab 132 so rotatingtab 132 can be easily pulled away from body of bracket 54. While withintab recess 133, rotating tab 132 is substantially restricted fromrotating, due to mechanical interference of tab recess 133. Thus, oncerotating tab 132 is rotated to align it with tab recess 133, terminus175 of latch bolt pin 174 is permitted to push back through smalldiameter portion 118′ of latch bolt bore 118, protruding from body ofbracket 54. As best shown in FIGS. 51 & 54, although terminus 175 isdescribed as protruding from body of bracket 54 to serve as a button,terminus 175 may protrude from a button recess 119 formed in body ofbracket 54 surrounding opening small diameter portion 118′ of latch boltbore 118. The distance of the protrusion of terminus 175 of latch boltpin 174 is less than the depth of button recess 119, so that inadvertentdepression of terminus 175 is substantially prevented.

At least one of the purposes of bracket 54 is to create a connectionbetween rail 52 and one or more devices or components thereof (e.g., acamera, a compass, an altimeter, a GPS unit, a night vision goggle(NVG), a battery pack, and/or a large variety of electronic and analogdevices and other equipment), where bracket 54 connects directly to thedevice or component thereof or to the device or component thereofthrough a positioning arm, a rotating joint, a tilting joint, a hingejoint, a branched arm, and/or a variety of appropriate connectors and/orcouplers and the like.

The present specification also discloses alternate embodiments ofbracket 54. As shown in FIGS. 55 & 56, a bracket 54′ can comprise ahinged coupler 197. In this example, bracket 54′ attaches to rail 52 inthe same manner (or substantially the same, if modifications arerequired to accommodate hinged coupler 197). As such, in thisembodiment, bracket 54′ comprises a first jaw 70′, a second jaw 72′, anda back plate 73′ along with all components thereof, and functionalitythereof as described herein and illustrated in FIGS. 28-54. In someembodiments, bracket 54′ can comprise hinged coupler 197 positioned onfirst jaw member 70′ or second jaw member 72′. In some embodiments,bracket 54′ can comprise two hinged couplers 197, with a first hingedcoupler 197 positioned on first jaw member 70′ and a second hingedcoupler 197′ positioned on second jaw member 72′.

As best shown in FIGS. 55-57, hinged coupler 197 comprises a couplerbase 199 and a latching socket 202. Coupler base 199 includes a firstouter knuckle 204, a second outer knuckle 206, and a hinge pin 200. Asdiscussed below, first outer knuckle 204, second outer knuckle 206, andhinge pin 200 are used to rotatably connect latching socket 202 tohinged coupler 197. In some embodiments, coupler base 199 of hingedcoupler 197 is integrally formed on first and/or second jaw members 70′,72′ as a single component by any known mechanism or process, such as,e.g., by being molded, cast, machined, etc. In some embodiments, couplerbase 199 of hinged coupler 197 is a separate component that is attachedto first and/or second jaw members 70′, 72′ by any known mechanism orprocess, such as, e.g., by being welded, brazed, adhered, screwed, orother appropriate fastening means). In some embodiments, and asillustrated in FIGS. 55 & 58, a surface of coupler base 199 is contouredto the shape of hinged coupler 197 to provide a fitted seat of hingedcoupler 197 when in close proximity to coupler base 199.

Referring to FIG. 57, latching socket 202 includes a socket body 203including a cylindrical drum portion 212, an inner knuckle 208 includinga cylindrical sleeve portion 210, a first latching pin 224, a secondlatching pin 226, a first latching spring 241, a first latching spring245, and a coupler 243. Inner knuckle 208 of latching socket 202rotatably connects to coupler base 199 through hinge pin 200 passingthrough a hole 205 of first outer knuckle 204, a hole 207 of secondouter knuckle 206, and a hole 209 of inner knuckle 208. In someembodiments, hinge pin 200 is a single piece. In some embodiments, andas shown in FIG. 57, hinge pin 200 is a two-part piece that screwstogether in order to properly attach inner knuckle 208 coupler base 199.

Hinge pin 200 permits inner knuckle 208 to rotate about coupler base199. In some embodiments, the range of angular rotation of latchingsocket 202 about coupler base 199 in about 90 degrees to about 270degrees. In some embodiments, the range of angular rotation of latchingsocket 202 about coupler base 199 in about 135 degrees to about 270degrees. In some embodiments, the range of angular rotation of latchingsocket 202 about coupler base 199 in about 135 degrees to about 225degrees. In some embodiments, the range of angular rotation of latchingsocket 202 about coupler base 199 in about 180 degrees to about 225degrees. In some embodiments, the range of angular rotation of latchingsocket 202 about coupler base 199 in about 90 degrees to about 180degrees. In some embodiments, the range of angular rotation of latchingsocket 202 about coupler base 199 in about 180 degrees to about 225degrees. In some embodiments, the range of angular rotation of latchingsocket 202 about coupler base 199 in about 135 degrees to about 180degrees.

Inner knuckle 208 of hinged coupler 197 can be rotated relative tocoupler base 199 in a controlled and temporarily fixed position, suchas, e.g., a locking mechanism, a friction hinge, or other appropriatemeans to control or catch the rotation of Inner knuckle 208. In someembodiment, hinged coupler 197 comprises a detent mechanism tocontrollably rotate and temporarily fix the rotation of inner knuckle208 relative to coupler base 199. In some embodiments, detent mechanismincludes one or more detent plungers or equivalent mounted to couplerbase 199 and one or more detents (hemispherical depressions formed asconcavities) positioned on inner knuckle 208. In some embodiments, asdiscussed above, detent plunger includes a detent ball captured in acylinder and spring loaded to bias the detent ball toward the open endof the cylinder.

An exemplary embodiment of a detent mechanism to controllably rotate andtemporarily fix the rotation of inner knuckle 208 relative to couplerbase 199 is shown in FIGS. 57 & 58. As shown in FIG. 57, inner knuckle208 includes two parallel rows of detents 218, 220 positioned about atleast a portion of the circumference of the cylindrical surface of innerknuckle 208. In some embodiments, two parallel rows of detents 218, 220are annularly spaced apart and aligned. In some embodiments, each of twoparallel rows of detents 218, 220 comprise 1 to 20 detents, such as,e.g., 4 to 12 detents, 6 to 12 detents, 8 to 12 detents, 4 to 16detents, 6 to 16 detents, 8 to 16 detents, 10 to 16 detents, 12 to 16detents, 4 to 20 detents, 6 to 20 detents, 8 to 20 detents, 10 to 20detents, 12 to 20 detents, or 16 to 20 detents. In some embodiments, asshown in FIG. 57, detents 218, 220 are the same or similar size. In someembodiments, as shown in FIGS. 62 & 63 detents 218, 220 can be of two ormore different sizes.

In some embodiments, coupler base 199 comprises a first detent plunger270 and a second detent plunger 270′. Referring to FIG. 58, each ofdetent plungers 270, 270′ comprises a detent cylinder 274 including anopen end 278 and a closed end 276 opposite open end 278 and a detentball 280 and a detent compression spring 282. Detent ball 280 and detentcompression spring 282 are captured in detent cylinder 274, with detentcompression spring 282 loaded to outwardly bias detent ball 280 towardopen end 278 of detent cylinder 276 in a manner that causes detent ball280 to protrude from open end 278 of detent cylinder 276. First andsecond detent plungers 270, 270′ are positioned inside of first andsecond outer knuckles 204, 206 respectively and in a manner where theoutwardly biasing first and second detent balls 280 are directed towardand in contact with inner knuckle 208, with first detent ball 280 inalignment with parallel row of detents 218 in a manner where detent ball280 is seated in one detent of row of detents 218, and second detentball 280 in alignment with parallel row of detents 220 in a manner wheredetent ball 280 is seated in one detent of row of row of detents 220.

A detent mechanism disclosed herein enables the radial or angularposition of inner knuckle 208 relative to coupler base 199 to beincrementally controlled and arrested at any one of the detents in theseries, acting as incremental catches. Rotation or angular positions arecontrolled by the spacing of detents 218, 220. In addition, factors suchas spring constant of detent compression spring 282 and the depth ofdetents 218, 220 control the degree of force required to change theposition of inner knuckle 208.

Examples of some of the rotation or angular positions possible withlatching socket 202 relative to coupler base 199 using a detentmechanism disclosed herein are illustrated in FIGS. 59-61. In FIG. 59,latching socket 202 is adjusted to a first angular positionapproximately corresponding to 9 o'clock. In FIG. 60, latching socket202 is adjusted to a second angular position approximately correspondingto 2 o'clock. In FIG. 61, latching socket 202 is adjusted to a thirdangular position approximately corresponding to 10 o'clock. Of courseother angular positions are possible. For example, in the illustratedexample embodiment, the range of angular rotation is between 9 o'clockand 6 o'clock (e.g., 270 degrees) with one or more catch points totemporarily arrest the motion of the latching socket 202 relative tocoupler base 199.

In addition to rotation of inner knuckle 208 relative to coupler base199, inner knuckle 208 of hinged coupler 197 can also be rotatedrelative to latching socket 202. In some embodiments, inner knuckle 208of hinged coupler 197 can be rotated relative to latching socket 202 ina controlled and temporarily fixed position, such as, e.g., a lockingmechanism, a friction hinge, or other appropriate means to control orcatch the rotation of latching socket 202. In some embodiment, andsimilar to the detent mechanism described above, hinged coupler 197comprises a detent mechanism to controllably rotate and temporarily fixthe rotation of latching socket 202 relative to inner knuckle 208. Inpreferred embodiments, complete or 360 degrees of rotation is enabled.

An exemplary embodiment of a detent mechanism used to controllablyrotate and temporarily fix the rotation of latching socket 202 relativeto inner knuckle 208 is shown in FIGS. 62 & 63. As shown in FIGS. 62 &63, inner knuckle 208 comprises a barrel portion 207 and a cylindricalsleeve portion 210 which extends perpendicularly from barrel portion207. Cylindrical sleeve portion 210 comprises a bottom which includes acentrally located threaded hole 214 and one or more detent cylinderspositioned around the threaded hole, the one or more detent cylindersused to assembly one or more detent plungers. Latching socket 202contains a through hole 216 configured to receive therethrough a screw217 and a bottom surface of cylindrical drum portion 212 includes ringof detents 218 positioned about at least a portion of the circumferenceof cylindrical drum portion 212. In assembly, cylindrical sleeve 210 ofinner knuckle 208 is configured to receive a cylindrical drum portion212 of latching socket 202 and screw 214 is inserted past through hole216 of latching socket 202 and secured into threaded hole 214 of innerknuckle 208. In some embodiments, ring of detents 218 comprise 1 to 12detents, such as, e.g., 1 to 2 detents, 1 to 4 detents, 2 to 6 detents,4 to 6 detents, 2 to 8 detents, 4 to 8 detents, 6 to 8 detents, 2 to 10detents, 4 to 10 detents, 6 to 10 detents, 8 to 10, detents, 2 to 12detents, 4 to 12 detents, 6 to 12 detents, 8 to 12 detents, or 10 to 12detents. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 60, detents 218 are thesame or similar size. In some embodiments, ring of detents 218 can be oftwo or more different sizes.

In some embodiment, four detent plungers 270, 270′, 270″, 270″ arelocated at a bottom portion of cylindrical sleeve 210. Referring toFIGS. 62 & 63, each of detent plungers 270, 270′, 270″, 270′″ comprisesa detent cylinder 274 including an open end 278 and a closed end 276opposite open end 278 and a detent ball 280 and a detent compressionspring 282. Detent ball 280 and detent compression spring 282 arecaptured in detent cylinder 274, with detent compression spring 282loaded to outwardly bias detent ball 280 toward open end 278 of detentcylinder 276 in a manner that causes detent ball 280 to protrude fromopen end 278 of detent cylinder 276. Detent plungers 270, 270′, 270″,270″ are positioned in a manner where the outwardly biasing detent balls280 are directed toward and in contact with latching socket 202, witheach detent ball 280 in alignment with ring of detents 218 in a mannerwhere each of detent balls 280 is seated in one detent of ring ofdetents 218 of latching socket 202.

A detent mechanism disclosed herein enables the rotational position oflatching socket 202 relative to inner knuckle 208 to be incrementallycontrolled and arrested at any one of the detents in the series, actingas incremental catches. Rotation or angular positions are controlled bythe spacing of detents of ring of detents 218. In addition, factors suchas spring constant of detent compression spring 282 and the depth ofdetents 218 control the degree of force required to change the positionlatching socket 202.

As shown in FIG. 57, distal end of latching socket 202 includes a socket222 configured to receive an arm or other coupler therewithin. In thisexample embodiment, socket 222 is a hexagonal-shaped socket forreceiving a hexagonal head 244 of a coupler 243, which prevents rotationbetween socket 222 and coupler 243. However, other socket shapes arecompatible with latching socket 202, including circular, elliptical,polygonal, unique shapes, and other shapes which may allow or restrictrotation of the coupler. As shown in FIG. 57, on each inner side or atleast one inner side of socket 222, parallel latching pin bores 247, 249hold corresponding latching pins 224, 226 in place. As shown in FIG. 57,latching pins 224, 226 each include a first end 236, a second end 238opposite first end 238. Second end 238 of latching pins 224, 226includes a blind hole to form a spring cup (see hole at second end 238of latching pin 226). One end of compression spring 241, 245 are seatedin the spring cups of latching pins 224, 226 respectively. The diameteror circumference of the spring cup of latching pins 224, 226 is smallerthan the diameter or circumference of latching pins 224, 226 andconfigured to house compression spring 241, 245. Latching pins 224, 226can also include a shoulder 239 formed near and spaced apart from firstend 236. In some embodiments, shoulder 239 is oblong or oval incross-section shape and serves to prevent rotation of latching pins 224,226 within a similarly oblong or oval in cross-section shape of latchingpin bores 247, 249. Latching pins 224, 226 can also include a limiterslot 228 near first end 238 formed longitudinally through shoulder 239.

As shown in FIG. 57, latching pins 224, 226 can also include a keywaycutout 230 a notch formed longitudinally through and parallel with thelength of the body of latching pins 224, 226. Each of latching pins 224,226 include the same or similar keyway cutout 230 shape. In addition,the shape of keyway cutout 230 is configured to be the same orsubstantially similar to a portion of the perimeter or circumrenal shapeof socket 222 and/or coupler 243. For instance, in the illustratedexample of FIG. 57, socket 222 and/or coupler 243 are hexagonal in shapeand keyway cutout 230 of latching pins 224, 226 each have a shape thatis the same of substantially the same to one-half of a hexagon, i.e.,three sides of a hexagon. In addition, each of keyway cutout 230 oflatching pins 224, 226 is configured to be arranged opposite to oneanother, so that latching pins 224, 226 can be moved within theirrespective latching pin bores 247, 249 so that each keyway cutout 230aligns with the interior wall of socket 222 so that socket 222 isunobstructed by any portion of latching pins 224, 226 (as shown in FIG.68). In this way, latching pins 224, 226 do not protrude (or minimallyprotrude) into socket 22, such that coupler 243 can be fully inserted orremoved from socket 222 without substantial mechanical interference.

Referring to FIGS. 57, 64, 65, second end 238 of latching pin 224extends toward a spring cylinder 242 while second end 238 of latchingpin 226 extends toward a spring cylinder 240. Each of spring cylinders240, 242 includes a blind hole located internally at the back end oflatching pin bores 247, 249 to form a spring cup (not shown). One end ofcompression spring 241, 245 are seated within the spring cups at theback end of latching pin bores 247, 249 respectively. The diameter orcircumference of the spring cup is generally smaller than the diameteror circumference of latching pin bores 247, 249 and is configured tohouse compression spring 241, 245. Thus, when hinged coupler 197assembled, one end of compression spring 241, 245 are seated within thespring cups at the back end of latching pin bores 247, 249 respectivelywhile the opposite end of compression spring 241, 245 are seated in thespring cups of latching pins 224, 226 respectively. In thisconfiguration, spring cylinder 240 holds a compression spring 245 oflatching pin 226 in a manner that compression spring 245 bias latchingpin 224 outward from spring cylinder 240. Similarly, spring cylinder 242holds a compression spring 241 of latching pin 224 in a manner thatcompression spring 241 bias latching pin 226 outward from springcylinder 242.

Referring to FIG. 57, spring bias of compression spring 245 is limitedby a pin 232 (which can be threaded) held within a pin hole 234 ofspring cylinder 242. Pin 232 extends perpendicularly through the housingof spring cylinder 242, into latching pin bore 249 and in closeproximity or in contact with limiter slot 228 of latching pin 226, suchthat as latching pin 226 move within latching pin bore 249, latching pin226 movement is limited by the distance defined by limiter slot 228.Similarly, spring bias of compression spring 241 is limited by a pin 231(which can be threaded) held within a pin hole 233 of spring cylinder240. Pin 231 extends perpendicularly through the housing of springcylinder 240, into latching pin bore 247 and in close proximity or incontact with limiter slot 228 of latching pin 224, such that as latchingpin 224 move within latching pin bore 247, latching pin 224 movement islimited by the distance defined by limiter slot 228.

Referring to FIG. 57, coupler 243 comprises a body 249, one or morecircumferential grooves 248, and one or more heads 244, each including aleading edge 246 and a shoulder 250. Coupler 243 can be of any lengthwith most of this length variation due to the length of body 249. Inpreferred embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 57, coupler 243comprises a centrally located body 249 with a first end and a secondend, where a first head 244 located at the first end of body 249, asecond head 244 located at the second end of body 249, and where a firstcircumferential groove 248 is located in between the first end of body249 and first head 244 and a second circumferential groove 248′ islocated in between the second end of body 249 and second head 244′.

Although body 249 of coupler 243 is illustrated as a linear componentwith first and second ends, body 249 can furcate into two or morebranches, where a terminus of each branch includes head 244′, eachconfigured for selectively receiving an accessory. In some embodiments,coupler 243 is comprised of three bodies 249 each having a terminus andarranged, e.g., in a T-shaped or Y-shaped configuration, with head 244′located at each terminus. In some embodiments, coupler 243 is comprisedof four bodies 249 each having a terminus and arranged, e.g., in ax-shaped or cross-shaped configuration, with head 244′ located at eachterminus. In some embodiments, coupler 243 is comprised of five bodies249 each having a terminus and arranged, e.g., in a star-shapedconfiguration, with head 244′ located at each terminus.

The perimeter or circumferential shape of at least one or more heads 244is configured to conform or substantially conform to the perimeter orcircumferential shape of socket 222, although as shown in FIG. 57 theperimeter or circumferential shape of all or substantially all ofcoupler 243 conform to the perimeter or circumferential shape of socket222. As shown in example embodiment of FIG. 57, first and second heads244, 244′ each have a perimeter or circumferential shape that ishexagonal and conform or substantially conform to the perimeter orcircumferential shape of socket 222. Similarly, perimeter orcircumferential shape of body 249 of coupler 243 is hexagonal andconforms or substantially conforms to the perimeter or circumferentialshape of socket 222. However, as with socket 222, the perimeter orcircumferential shape of heads 244 as well as the perimeter orcircumferential shape of all or substantially all of coupler 243 can beany shape, including circular, elliptical, polygonal, unique shapes, andother shapes so long as that shape conforms or substantially conforms tothe perimeter or circumferential shape of socket 222.

As illustrated in FIGS. 66-71, while at least one or more heads 244 isconfigured to conform or substantially conform to the perimeter orcircumferential shape of socket 222, one or more other heads can beconfigured to receive alternative sockets or adaptors. In someembodiments, and as illustrated in FIGS. 66 & 67, while head 244 isconfigured to conform or substantially conform to the perimeter orcircumferential shape of socket 222, head 244′ is configured as anadaptor A1, in this case, a Go-Pro adaptor. In some embodiments, and asillustrated in FIGS. 68 & 69, while head 244 is configured to conform orsubstantially conform to the perimeter or circumferential shape ofsocket 222, head 244′ is configured as an adaptor A2, in this case, ascrew adaptor.

In some embodiments, and as illustrated in FIGS. 70 & 71, while head 244is configured to conform or substantially conform to the perimeter orcircumferential shape of socket 222, head 244′ is configured as anadaptor A3. As shown in FIGS. 70 & 71, adaptor A3 comprises innerknuckle 208 comprises a barrel portion 207 with a first end and a secondend and a coupler 243 which extends perpendicularly from barrel portion207. Device holder 308 extends from the first end of barrel portion 207of inner knuckle 208 while device holder 310 extends from the second endof barrel portion 207 of inner knuckle 208. Inner knuckle 208 of adaptorA3 can be rotated about coupler base 199 relative to coupler base 199 ina controlled and temporarily fixed position as disclosed herein using,e.g., a detent mechanism as disclosed herein. In some embodiments,device holders 308 is configured to receive and secure groundpositioning system (GPS) device D1, and device holders 310 is configuredto receive and secure compass D2 and flashlight D3.

Referring to FIGS. 57, 64 & 65, in operation, latching pins 224, 226 areeach normally biased to push latching pin 226 into socket 222, whereedge 229 and locking edge 223 of each of latching pins 224, 226, arelocated within socket 222, in a misaligned configuration (as shown inFIG. 64). Radiused leading edge 246 (or beveled or otherwise configuredobliquely) of coupler 243 is configured to obliquely contact bevelededge 229 (or radiused or otherwise configured obliquely) of latchingpins 224, 226 as radiused leading edge 246 is inserted into socket 222.Insertion of radiused leading edge 246 pushes each of latching pins 224,226 laterally outward through latching pin bores 247, 249 so thatradiused leading edge 246 is pushed past latching pins 224, 226. Whencircumferential groove 248 of coupler 243 aligns with latching pins 224,226, circumferential groove 248 provides clearance for latching pins224, 226 to immediately move inward through their respective latchingpin bores 247, 249 back into the misaligned configuration, where lockingedge 223 of each of latching pins 224, 226 is positioned withincircumferential groove 248 and over shoulder 250 of coupler 243. Becauseshoulder 250 and locking edge 223 have faces substantially parallel toone another, locking edge 223 prevents inadvertent withdrawal of coupler243 due to locking edge 223 providing mechanical interference bycontacting shoulder 250.

Coupler 243 is firmly held within socket 222 by latching pins 224, 226.In order to remove coupler 243, a user simultaneously presses on firstends 236, 237 of latching pins 224, 226, pushing inwardly and towardsocket 222, as indicated by arrows 254 and 252 of FIG. 65; for example,by pinching with a forefinger and thumb. This positions latching pins224, 226 back into the aligned configuration, where locking edge 223 iswithdrawn from circumferential groove 248 and no longer remains incontact shoulder 250, allowing coupler 243 to be freely removed fromsocket 222.

Coupler 243 selectively forms a connection between bracket 54′ andanother component, e.g., an accessory for a device, another device, oran adaptor or connector for another component. In particular, head 244of coupler 243 inserts within socket 222 (as shown ready to occur inFIG. 57), with head 244′ at the opposite end ready to receive acomponent having a socket like socket 222. This entire assembly can alsobe mounted to rail 52 through bracket 54′. A component includes, withoutlimitation, a device, a flashlight, LED lights, armor back plates,knives, pepper spray, alarms, magnetic mounts, grip attachmentspermitting remote or local control of a device, any device-mountedaccessory, sirens, tethers, lanyards, locks, mounts, suction cups,straps, timepieces, writing instruments, weapons, batteries, anattachment to motor vehicles or bicycles or aircraft, stationary ormobile object with clams, anything that attaches to a screw thread, andso on, or other mechanical or electronic component. Examples of screwthreads include 1/4-20 UNC thread, a 3/8-16 UNC thread, or any othersimilar screw thread standards known in the art.

Although latching socket 202 and hinged coupler 197 are shown in theillustrated embodiments as being connected or integral with one anotherand with bracket 54′, each is useful in themselves and/or in connectionwith other devices, known or unknown. For example, hinged coupler 197can be used is a variety of applications where one component is requiredto be rotated relative to a second component connected through hingedcoupler 197. In a further example, latching socket 202 can be usedseparately (e.g., without necessarily being permanently attached toanother component) to temporarily attach to a second component.

Aspects of the present specification can be described as follows:

-   1. A bracket comprising a) a first jaw member, the first jaw member    comprising an inner surface including a first mating portion and a    first clamping portion, the first clamping portion including one or    more engagement bosses, b) a second jaw member, the second jaw    member comprising an inner surface including a second mating portion    and a second clamping portion, the second clamping portion including    one or more engagement bosses, c) a pin assembly comprising a    latching pin including a latch bolt hole and a guide pin, the    latching pin and the guide pin being perpendicular to the first and    second clamping portions of the first and second jaw members, and d)    a latch bolt assembly comprising a latch bolt slidably insertable    through a latch bolt bore, the latch bolt having cylindrical body    and including a first end and a second end, wherein the latch bolt    assembly is housed in the second jaw member, wherein the pin    assembly connects the first and second jaw members, wherein the pin    assembly is configured to slidably translate the first and second    jaw members toward one another in a first direction or away from one    another in a direction opposite the first direction, and wherein the    bracket can adopt an open configuration and a closed configuration.-   2. The bracket of embodiment 1, wherein the latching pin is secured    to the first jaw member and slidably insertable through a latching    pin bore present on second jaw member,-   3. The bracket of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the guide pin is    secured to the second jaw member and slidably insertable through a    guide pin bore present on first jaw member.-   4. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein the latch bolt    assembly is located in a direction perpendicular to the second    clamping portion of the second jaw member.-   5. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-4, further comprising one    or more jaw compression springs, each of the one or more jaw    compression springs including a first end and a second end, wherein    the first end is seated in a locating hole present on the first    mating portion of the first jaw member and the second end is seated    in a locating hole present on the second mating portion of the    second jaw member, wherein one or more jaw compression springs    provide a separating bias that forces the first jaw member and the    second jaw member apart.-   6. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-5, wherein the latch bolt    further comprises latch bolt spring that provides a separating bias    that forces the latch bolt in a direction outward of latch bolt    bore.-   7. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-6, wherein the latch bolt    further comprises an elongated channel perpendicular to the    longitudinal axis of the latch bolt, the elongated channel forming    an enclosure to house the latch bolt spring.-   8. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the elongated    channel further comprises a limiter slot.-   9. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-8, wherein the latch bolt    further comprises a latch bolt pin protruding axially from the    second end of the latch bolt, the latch bolt pin being cylindrical    in shape and of smaller diameter than the cylindrical body of the    latch bolt.-   10. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-9, wherein the latch    bolt further comprises a rotating tab attached to the first end of    the latch bolt.-   11. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-10, wherein when in the    closed configuration, first and second jaw members are in close    proximity to one another and the latch bolt is inserted in latch    bolt hole of the latching pin.-   12. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-11, wherein when in the    open configuration, first and second jaw members are apart from one    another and the latch bolt is removed from latch bolt hole of the    latching pin.-   13. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-12, wherein the one or    more engagement bosses of the first clamping portions are two    engagement bosses.-   14. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-13, wherein the one or    more engagement bosses of the second clamping portion are two    engagement bosses.-   15. The bracket of any one of embodiments 1-14, further comprising a    back plate and a back-plate recess, the back plate is cantilevered    from the first jaw member and the back-plate recess is formed on the    second jaw member.-   16. The bracket of embodiment 15, wherein the back plate further    comprises an attachment point and one or more indexing holes.-   17. A device case comprising a) a first frame member, the first    frame member including a first engagement surface comprising one or    more engagement slots and a plurality of through holes, b) a second    frame member, the second frame member including a second engagement    surface comprising one or more engagement slots and a plurality of    through holes, c) a sidewall frame member, the sidewall frame member    including a third engagement surface, and d) a gasket, the gasket    being composed of an elastomeric material and shaped to configure to    at least fit around an outer perimeter of a device and align in    close proximity with an inside surface of the sidewall frame member,    wherein the sidewall frame member is sandwiched between and spaces    apart the first frame member and the second frame member, and in a    manner that forming an interior space for a device to fit therein    and aligns each through hole of the plurality of through holes from    the first frame member with each through hole of the plurality of    through holes from the second frame member to form a plurality of    paired through holes, wherein the first frame member and the second    frame member compressively bear down on the sidewall frame member by    securing the first frame member to the second frame member using a    plurality of screws, each screw of the plurality of screws inserted    through a paired through hole of the plurality of paired through    holes from the first and second frame member, and wherein the device    case forms a water-tight seal preventing moisture from entering the    interior space.-   18. The device case of embodiment 17, further comprising a plurality    of inserts, each insert of plurality of inserts aligned with each    paired through hole of the plurality of paired through holes from    the first and second frame member.-   19. The device case of embodiment 17 or 18, wherein a front inner    perimeter the sidewall frame member includes a front ridge and a    back inner perimeter the sidewall frame member includes a back    ridge, the front ridge being inserted within a slot of first frame    member and the back ridge being inserted within a slot of second    frame member.-   20. The device case of any one of embodiments 17-19, wherein the    sidewall frame member further comprises an attachment point and one    or more indexing holes.-   21. The device case of any one of embodiments 17-20, wherein the    gasket comprises one or more contacts protrusions, the one or more    contacts protrusion located in the vicinity of one or more buttons    present of the device to be encased.-   22. The device case of any one of embodiments 17-21, wherein the    gasket comprises one or more thin portions that are water-tight and    located in the vicinity of one or more speaker or microphone ports    present of the device to be encased.-   23. The device case of any one of embodiments 17-22, further    comprising a sealing plate, the sealing plate comprising one or more    through ports.-   24. The device case of embodiment 23, wherein a portion of the    sidewall frame member is configured to receive the sealing plate.-   25. The device case of embodiment 24, wherein a portion of the first    frame member, the second frame member, or both the first and second    frame members is configured to receive the sealing plate.-   26. The device case of embodiment 23, wherein at least one of the    one or more through ports include a sealing cap, the sealing cap    comprising an O-ring.-   27. The device case of embodiment 23, wherein at least one of the    one or more through ports is located in the vicinity of one or more    audio or power jacks present of the device to be encased.-   28. The device case of any one of embodiments 17-27, further    comprising one or more button inserts, the one or more button    inserts being secured by the sidewall frame member.-   29. An adaptor comprising a) an indexing plate, the indexing plate    being disc-shaped and including a top surface, a bottom surface and    a through hole centrally located in the indexing plate, the top    surface of the indexing plate including a circular ring of detents    positioned around the through hole, and the bottom surface of the    indexing plate including one or more indexing pins extending    perpendicularly from the bottom surface, b) an adaptor plate, the    adaptor plate being disc-shaped and including a top surface, a    bottom surface, the adaptor plate housing one or more detent    plungers, the top surface of the adaptor plate including a coupler    extending perpendicularly from the top surface, and the bottom    surface of the adaptor plate including a threaded screw extending    perpendicularly from the bottom surface, wherein each of the one or    more detent plungers comprising a detent cylinder with an open end    and an open threaded end opposite the open end and a detent ball and    a detent compression spring, and wherein the detent ball and the    detent compression spring captured within the detent cylinder by a    set screw secured to open threaded end, the detent compression    spring outwardly biasing detent ball toward the open end of the    detent cylinder in a manner that causes the detent ball to protrude    from the open end of the detent cylinder, and c) a retaining clip,    the retaining clip securing the indexing plate to the adaptor plate,    wherein each of the one or more detent plungers is aligned with the    ring of detents in a manner that the detent ball protruding from the    open end of the detent cylinder of each of the one or more detent    plungers will be seated in a detent from the ring of detents, and    wherein a rotational position of the adaptor plate is selectively    controlled when a detent from the from the ring of detents is    selectively brought into alignment with the detent ball of each of    the one or more detent plungers by relative rotation between the    adaptor plate and the indexing plate.-   30. A rail comprising a rail body, the rail body comprising a) a    first engagement surface comprising one or more engagement slots, b)    a second engagement surface comprising one or more engagement    slots, c) a third surface, wherein the first engagement surface is    adjacent the third surface, the second engagement surface is    adjacent the third surface and the second engagement surface is    parallel, spaced apart and facing oppositely the first engagement    surface, with the third surface spanning between the first    engagement surface and the second engagement surface.-   31. The rail of embodiment 30, wherein the third engagement surface    further comprises a plurality of through holes.-   32. The rail of embodiment 30 or 31, further comprising a base    support.-   33. The rail of embodiment 32, wherein the base support comprises an    adhesive layer on the side that will come in contact with a support.-   34. The rail of embodiment 32, wherein the base support comprises    one or more tabs configured for inserted into one or more pockets or    pouches on a base support mount.-   35. A mounting system comprising a) a bracket of any one of    embodiments 1-16, and b) a rail of any one of embodiments 30-34,    wherein the one or more engagement slots of the first engagement    surface of the rail body are configured to receive the one or more    engagement bosses of the first jaw member of the bracket and the one    or more engagement slots of the second engagement surface of the    rail body are configured to receive the one or more engagement    bosses of the second jaw member of the bracket.-   36. A mounting system comprising a) a bracket of any one of    embodiments 1-16, and b) a rail, the rail comprising a rail body,    the rail body comprising i) a first engagement surface comprising    one or more engagement slots, ii) a second engagement surface    comprising one or more engagement slots, and iii) a third surface,    wherein the first engagement surface is adjacent the third surface,    the second engagement surface is adjacent the third surface and the    second engagement surface is parallel, spaced apart and facing    oppositely the first engagement surface, with the third surface    spanning between the first engagement surface and the second    engagement surface, and wherein the one or more engagement slots of    the first engagement surface of the rail body are configured to    receive the one or more engagement bosses of the first jaw member of    the bracket and the one or more engagement slots of the second    engagement surface of the rail body are configured to receive the    one or more engagement bosses of the second jaw member of the    bracket.-   37. The rail of embodiment 36, wherein the third engagement surface    further comprises a plurality of through holes.-   38. The rail of embodiment 36 or 37, further comprising a base    support.-   39. The rail of embodiment 38, wherein the base support comprises an    adhesive layer on the side that will come in contact with a support.-   40. The rail of embodiment 38, wherein the base support comprises    one or more tabs configured for inserted into one or more pockets or    pouches on a base support mount.-   41. A mounting system comprising a) a device case of any one of    embodiments 17-28, the sidewall frame member further comprises an    attachment point and one or more indexing holes, and b) a device    case adaptor, the device case adaptor comprising an indexing plate    and an adaptor plate, the indexing plate including one or more    indexing pins configured to align and insert into one or more    indexing holes and the adaptor plate including a coupler on a first    surface of the adaptor plate and a threaded screw on a second    surface of the adaptor plate.-   42. A hinged coupler bracket comprising a bracket of any one of    embodiments 1-16 and further comprising a hinged coupler.-   43. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 42, wherein the hinged    coupler comprises a coupler base including a first outer knuckle and    a second outer knuckle, an inner knuckle and a latching socket    including a socket body and a socket formed within the socket body.-   44. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 42 or 43, wherein the    inner knuckle is rotatably coupled to the coupler base by a hinge    pin inserted through the first outer knuckle, the inner knuckle and    the second outer knuckle.-   45. The hinged coupler bracket of any one of embodiments 42-44,    wherein the coupler base further comprises a first detent plunger    and a second detent plunger, the first and second detent plungers    each comprising a detent cylinder with an open end and a closed end    opposite the open end and a detent ball and a detent compression    spring captured within the detent cylinder, the detent compression    spring outwardly bias detent ball toward the open end of the detent    cylinder in a manner that causes the detent ball to protrude from    the open end of the detent cylinder, wherein the inner knuckle    further comprises a first row of detents that are annularly spaced    apart and aligned and a second row of detents that are annularly    spaced apart and aligned, the first and second row of detents being    parallel to each other, wherein the first and second detent plungers    are aligned with the first and second row of detents respectively,    in a manner that the detent ball protruding from the open end of the    detent cylinder will be seated in a detent from the first and second    row of detents, and wherein an angular position of the inner knuckle    is selectively controlled when a detent from the first and second    row of detents is selectively brought into alignment with the detent    ball of first and second detent plungers by relative rotation    between the inner knuckle and the coupler base.-   46. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 45, wherein the first    detent plunger is positioned by the first outer knuckle and oriented    radially toward the inner knuckle and the second detent plunger is    positioned by the second outer knuckle and oriented radially toward    the inner knuckle.-   47. The hinged coupler bracket of any one of embodiments 42-46,    wherein the inner knuckle is rotatably coupled to the latching    socket by a detent mechanism, wherein a cylindrical drum portion of    the latching socket is inserted into a cylindrical sleeve portion of    the inner knuckle causing an end surface portion of the cylindrical    sleeve portion to come into close proximity to an end surface of the    cylindrical drum portion, wherein the inner knuckle further    comprises one or more detent plungers, each of the one or more    detent plungers comprising a detent cylinder with an open end and a    closed end opposite the open end and a detent ball and a detent    compression spring captured within the detent cylinder, the detent    compression spring outwardly bias detent ball toward the open end of    the detent cylinder in a manner that causes the detent ball to    protrude from the open end of the detent cylinder, wherein the end    surface of the cylindrical drum portion of the latching socket    further comprises a ring of detents that are annularly spaced apart    and located near the perimeter of the end surface of the cylindrical    drum portion, wherein each of the one or more detent plungers is    aligned with the ring of detents in a manner that the detent ball    protruding from the open end of the detent cylinder of each of the    one or more detent plungers will be seated in a detent from the ring    of detents, and wherein a rotational position of the latching socket    is selectively controlled when a detent from the from the ring of    detents is selectively brought into alignment with the detent ball    of each of the one or more detent plungers by relative rotation    between the latching socket and the inner knuckle.-   48. The hinged coupler bracket of any one of embodiments 42-47,    wherein the latching socket includes a) a latching pin bore formed    blindly in the body transversely to the socket and intersecting the    socket, a spring bore being formed at a blind end of the latching    pin bore and an open end of the latching pin bore opening through    the socket body, b) a latching pin slidably fitted within the    latching pin bore, the latching pin having a keyway notched    laterally therein, the keyway including a locking edge, a purchase    end of the latching pin protruding from the open end and a spring    end positioned within the spring bore; c) a spring positioned within    the spring bore between the blend end of the latching pin bore and    the spring end of the latching pin, the spring biasing the latching    pin toward the open end of the spring bore; wherein, in a locked    configuration, the keyway is biased to be misaligned with the    latching pin bore so that the locking edge of the keyway is    positioned within the latching pin bore; and wherein, in a unlocked    configuration, the first end of the latching pin is manually pressed    axially further into the latching pin bore to move the locking edge    toward the spring bore.-   49. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 48, wherein the    latching pin bore is formed orthogonally to the socket.-   50. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 48 or 49, wherein the    latching socket further comprises a) a second latching pin bore    formed blindly in the body transversely to the socket and    intersecting the socket, a second spring bore being formed at a    second blind end of the second latching pin bore and an second open    end of the latching pin bore opening through the socket body, the    second latching pin bore positioned apart from the latching pin    bore; and b) a second latching pin slidably fitted within the second    latching pin bore, the second latching pin having a second keyway    notched laterally therein, the second keyway including a second    locking edge, a second purchase end of the latching pin protruding    from the second open end and a second spring end positioned within    the second spring bore.-   51. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 50, wherein the    latching pin bore and the second latching pin bore are formed    orthogonally to the socket, with the latching pin bore and the    second latching pin bore axially parallel to one another.-   52. The hinged coupler bracket of any one of embodiments 48-51,    wherein the locking edge of the keyway is configured to be engaged    with the latch engagement portion of the attachment when the    attachment is inserted within the socket in the locked    configuration.-   53. The hinged coupler bracket of any one of embodiments 43-52,    wherein the socket is hexagonally shaped.-   54. A hinged coupler bracket comprising a) a first jaw member, the    first jaw member comprising an inner surface including a first    mating portion and a first clamping portion, the first clamping    portion including one or more engagement bosses, and an outer    surface comprising a hinged coupler, b) a second jaw member, the    second jaw member comprising an inner surface including a second    mating portion and a second clamping portion, the second clamping    portion including one or more engagement bosses, c) a pin assembly    comprising a latching pin including a latch bolt hole and a guide    pin, the latching pin and the guide pin being perpendicular to the    first and second clamping portions of the first and second jaw    members, and d) a latch bolt assembly comprising a latch bolt    slidably insertable through a latch bolt bore, the latch bolt having    cylindrical body and including a first end and a second end, wherein    the latch bolt assembly is housed in the second jaw member, wherein    the pin assembly connects the first and second jaw members, wherein    the pin assembly is configured to slidably translate the first and    second jaw members toward one another in a first direction or away    from one another in a direction opposite the first direction, and    wherein the bracket can adopt an open configuration and a closed    configuration.-   55. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 54, wherein the hinged    coupler comprises a coupler base including a first outer knuckle and    a second outer knuckle, an inner knuckle and a latching socket    including a socket body and a socket formed within the socket body.-   56. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 54 or 55, wherein the    inner knuckle is rotatably coupled to the coupler base by a hinge    pin inserted through the first outer knuckle, the inner knuckle and    the second outer knuckle.-   57. The hinged coupler bracket of any one of embodiments 54-56,    wherein the coupler base further comprises a first detent plunger    and a second detent plunger, the first and second detent plungers    each comprising a detent cylinder with an open end and a closed end    opposite the open end and a detent ball and a detent compression    spring captured within the detent cylinder, the detent compression    spring outwardly bias detent ball toward the open end of the detent    cylinder in a manner that causes the detent ball to protrude from    the open end of the detent cylinder, wherein the inner knuckle    further comprises a first row of detents that are annularly spaced    apart and aligned and a second row of detents that are annularly    spaced apart and aligned, the first and second row of detents being    parallel to each other, wherein the first and second detent plungers    are aligned with the first and second row of detents respectively,    in a manner that the detent ball protruding from the open end of the    detent cylinder will be seated in a detent from the first and second    row of detents, and wherein an angular position of the inner knuckle    is selectively controlled when a detent from the first and second    row of detents is selectively brought into alignment with the detent    ball of first and second detent plungers by relative rotation    between the inner knuckle and the coupler base.-   58. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 57, wherein the first    detent plunger is positioned by the first outer knuckle and oriented    radially toward the inner knuckle and the second detent plunger is    positioned by the second outer knuckle and oriented radially toward    the inner knuckle.-   59. The hinged coupler bracket of any one of embodiments 54-58,    wherein the inner knuckle is rotatably coupled to the latching    socket by a detent mechanism, wherein a cylindrical drum portion of    the latching socket is inserted into a cylindrical sleeve portion of    the inner knuckle causing an end surface portion of the cylindrical    sleeve portion to come into close proximity to an end surface of the    cylindrical drum portion, wherein the inner knuckle further    comprises one or more detent plungers, each of the one or more    detent plungers comprising a detent cylinder with an open end and a    closed end opposite the open end and a detent ball and a detent    compression spring captured within the detent cylinder, the detent    compression spring outwardly bias detent ball toward the open end of    the detent cylinder in a manner that causes the detent ball to    protrude from the open end of the detent cylinder, wherein the end    surface of the cylindrical drum portion of the latching socket    further comprises a ring of detents that are annularly spaced apart    and located near the perimeter of the end surface of the cylindrical    drum portion, wherein each of the one or more detent plungers is    aligned with the ring of detents in a manner that the detent ball    protruding from the open end of the detent cylinder of each of the    one or more detent plungers will be seated in a detent from the ring    of detents, and    -   wherein a rotational position of the latching socket is        selectively controlled when a detent from the from the ring of        detents is selectively brought into alignment with the detent        ball of each of the one or more detent plungers by relative        rotation between the latching socket and the inner knuckle.-   60. The hinged coupler bracket of any one of embodiments 54-59,    wherein the latching socket includes a) a latching pin bore formed    blindly in the body transversely to the socket and intersecting the    socket, a spring bore being formed at a blind end of the latching    pin bore and an open end of the latching pin bore opening through    the socket body, b) a latching pin slidably fitted within the    latching pin bore, the latching pin having a keyway notched    laterally therein, the keyway including a locking edge, a purchase    end of the latching pin protruding from the open end and a spring    end positioned within the spring bore, c) a spring positioned within    the spring bore between the blend end of the latching pin bore and    the spring end of the latching pin, the spring biasing the latching    pin toward the open end of the spring bore; wherein, in a locked    configuration, the keyway is biased to be misaligned with the    latching pin bore so that the locking edge of the keyway is    positioned within the latching pin bore; and wherein, in a unlocked    configuration, the first end of the latching pin is manually pressed    axially further into the latching pin bore to move the locking edge    toward the spring bore.-   61. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 60, wherein the    latching pin bore is formed orthogonally to the socket.-   62. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 60 or 61, wherein the    latching socket further comprises a) a second latching pin bore    formed blindly in the body transversely to the socket and    intersecting the socket, a second spring bore being formed at a    second blind end of the second latching pin bore and an second open    end of the latching pin bore opening through the socket body, the    second latching pin bore positioned apart from the latching pin    bore; and b) a second latching pin slidably fitted within the second    latching pin bore, the second latching pin having a second keyway    notched laterally therein, the second keyway including a second    locking edge, a second purchase end of the latching pin protruding    from the second open end and a second spring end positioned within    the second spring bore.-   63. The hinged coupler bracket of embodiment 62, wherein the    latching pin bore and the second latching pin bore are formed    orthogonally to the socket, with the latching pin bore and the    second latching pin bore axially parallel to one another.-   64. hinged coupler bracket of any one of embodiments 60-63, wherein    the locking edge of the keyway is configured to be engaged with the    latch engagement portion of the attachment when the attachment is    inserted within the socket in the locked configuration.-   65. The hinged coupler bracket of any one of embodiments 55-64,    wherein the socket is hexagonally shaped.-   66. A hinged joint comprising: an inner knuckle rotatably coupled to    an outer knuckle by a hinge pin passing through the inner knuckle    and the outer knuckle; a detent mechanism that checks the relative    motion about the hinge pin between the inner knuckle and the outer    knuckle, the detent mechanism includes a detent plunger configured    to engage a detent, wherein an angular position of the inner knuckle    is selectively held when the detent plunger is engaged within the    detent.-   67. The hinged joint of embodiment 66 wherein the detent plunger is    positioned on an outer knuckle body and oriented radially toward the    inner knuckle, the detent is positioned on the inner knuckle and is    selectively brought into alignment with the detent plunger by    relative rotation between the inner knuckle and the outer knuckle.-   68. The hinged joint of embodiment 66 or 67, wherein the detent is a    plurality of depressions formed about the inner knuckle.-   69. A bracket comprising: a first jaw member; a second jaw member    slidably translatable parallel to a first direction, the second jaw    member sliding relative to the first jaw member, a latching pin bore    formed in the second jaw member arranged parallel to the first    direction, a latch bolt bore being formed in the second jaw member    arranged parallel to a second direction and perpendicular to the    first direction, the latch bolt bore intersecting the latching guide    pin bore; a latching pin extending from the first jaw member    arranged parallel to the first direction and slidably inserted    within the latching pin bore to guide travel of the second jaw    member relative to the first jaw member in the first direction, a    bolt channel being formed lengthwise on the latching pin, a bolt    hole being formed within the bolt channel and being deeper than the    bolt channel; and a latch bolt slidably inserted within the latch    bolt bore, a terminus of the latch bolt being inserted within the    bolt hole in a locked configuration where movement of the second jaw    member away from the first jaw member is substantially prevented,    the terminus of the latch bolt configured to be positioned out of    the bolt hole and within the bolt channel in an unlocked    configuration where sliding of the second jaw member away from the    first jaw member is permitted, with the terminus riding within the    bolt channel as the second jaw member moves away from the first jaw    member.-   70. The bracket of embodiment 69 further comprising: a guide pin    extending from the second jaw member arranged parallel to the first    direction and slidably inserted within a guide pin bore formed in    the first jaw member arranged parallel to the first direction to    guide travel of the first jaw member relative to the second jaw    member in the first direction.-   71. The bracket of embodiment 69 or 70 further comprising: a jaw    expanding spring positioned between the first jaw member and the    second jaw member, the jaw expanding spring configured to normally    bias the first jaw member and the second jaw member away from one    another; wherein, in the unlocked configuration, the first jaw    member and the second jaw member are forced to slide away from one    another by the jaw expanding spring.-   72. The bracket of any one of embodiments 69-71, wherein the bolt    channel limits travel of the first jaw member away from the second    jaw member due to the terminus of the latch bolt being restricted to    travel within the bolt channel.-   73. The bracket of any one of embodiments 69-72, wherein the latch    bolt comprises a limiter slot is formed lengthwise on the latch    bolt, wherein a limiter extends through the limiter slot to limit    travel of the latch bolt within the latch bolt bore as the latch    bolt travels relative to the limiter.-   74. The bracket of embodiment 73, wherein the latch bolt further    comprises a body and a bolt axially extending from the body, the    terminus distally located on the bolt, a spring channel being formed    lengthwise on the body, the limiter slot located within the spring    channel.-   75. The bracket of embodiment 74, wherein the limiter slot includes    a spring seat closest to the bolt, a retraction spring is positioned    within the spring channel between the spring seat and the limiter,    wherein, as the terminus of the latch bolt is manually forced from    the bolt hole, the retraction spring biases the latch bolt back    toward the latching guide pin due to the retraction spring being    compressed between the spring seat and the limiter.-   76. The bracket of embodiment 75, wherein a bolt stop is defined    within the bolt channel adjacent to the bolt hole, the terminus of    the bolt is configured to pushed against the bolt stop in the    unlocked configuration under the bias of the retraction springe.-   77. The bracket of embodiment 76, wherein, as the latching guide pin    is moved relative to the terminus of the bolt, the terminus of the    bolt is configured to ride against the bolt stop during the    transition from the unlocked configuration to the locked    configuration, wherein, when the bolt hole is brought into alignment    with the terminus of the bolt, the retraction spring forces the bolt    into the bolt hole to complete the transition to the locked    configuration.-   78. The bracket of any one of embodiments 69-77, wherein the latch    bolt bore is formed completely through the second jaw member, and    wherein the latch bolt is configured to extend through the latching    guide such that the terminus of the latch bolt protrudes from the    second jaw member in the locked configuration.-   79. The bracket of embodiment 78, wherein the latch bolt bore    comprises a rotating tab on an end of the latch bolt opposite the    terminus, the rotating tab configured to rotate relative to the    latch bolt, and wherein the rotating tab is positioned closely    adjacent to the second jaw member in the locked configuration, to    initiate the transition from the locked configuration to the    unlocked configuration, the terminus is manually pushed into the    latch bolt bore which causes the rotating tab to move away from    second jaw member which provides clearance for manual purchase of    the rotating tab for further pulling.-   80. The bracket of embodiment 79, wherein a tab recess is formed on    the second jaw member adjacent to the latch bolt bore and configured    to receive the rotating tab when in the locked configuration to    prevent inadvertent rotation of the tab.-   81. The bracket of embodiment 79, wherein the rotating tab includes    a detent mechanism interfacing between the end of the latch bolt and    the rotating tab to temporarily arrest the rotation of the rotating    tab at predetermined angular positions, wherein the rotating tab is    configured to be rotated to an angular position where a portion of    the rotating tab overhangs the second jaw member for improving    manual purchase.-   82. The bracket of any one of embodiments 69-81, wherein the first    jaw member includes a first clamping face and the second jaw member    includes a second clamping face spaced apart from and opposing the    first clamping face in a clamping arrangement.-   83. The bracket of embodiment 82, wherein a first engagement boss    protrudes from the first clamping face and a second engagement boss    protrudes from the second clamping face.-   84. The bracket of embodiment 83, wherein the first engagement boss    and the second engagement boss are each configured as an elongated    boss.-   85. The bracket of any one of embodiments 69-84, wherein a throat    region is defined between the first jaw member and the second jaw    member, a back side of the bracket defined opposite the throat    region, a back plate is configured to slide within a back-plate    recess to prevent undue flexure between the first jaw member and the    second jaw member.-   86. The bracket of embodiment 85, wherein the back plate is    cantilevered from the first jaw member and the back-plate recess is    formed on the second jaw member.-   87. A bracket comprising: a first jaw member, a latching portion    extending from the first jaw member arranged parallel to a first    direction, a bolt channel being formed lengthwise on the latching    portion, a bolt hole being formed within the bolt channel and being    deeper than the bolt channel; a second jaw member slidably    translatable relative to the first jaw member parallel to the first    direction, a latching bore formed in the second jaw member arranged    parallel to the first direction, a latch bolt bore being formed in    the second jaw member arranged parallel to a second direction and    perpendicular to the first direction, the latch bolt bore    intersecting the latching guide pin bore, the latching portion    slidably inserted within the latching bore; and a latch bolt    slidably inserted within the latch bolt bore, a terminus of the    latch bolt being inserted within the bolt hole in a locked    configuration where movement of the second jaw member away from the    first jaw member is substantially prevented, the terminus of the    latch bolt configured to be positioned out of the bolt hole and    within the bolt channel in an unlocked configuration where sliding    of the second jaw member away from the first jaw member is    permitted, with the terminus riding within the bolt channel as the    second jaw member moves away from the first jaw member.-   88. The bracket of embodiment 87, wherein the latching portion is a    latching guide pin slidably inserted within the latching bore to    guide travel of the second jaw member relative to the first jaw    member in the first direction.-   89. A rail for receiving a clamp having a first engagement boss    spaced apart and in-line with a second engagement boss, the first    engagement boss and the second engagement boss each having a boss    width and a boss length, a first distance being defined between a    first innermost edge of the first engagement boss and a second    innermost edge of the second engagement boss, a second distance    being defined between a first outermost edge of the first engagement    boss and a second outermost edge of the second engagement boss, the    rail comprising: a rail body having a first engagement surface, a    second surface adjacent to the first engagement surface, and a third    surface parallel, spaced apart, and facing oppositely of the first    engagement surface with the second surface spanning between the    first engagement surface and the third surface; a first engagement    slot formed on the first engagement surface and configured to    receive the first engagement boss and the second engagement boss,    the first engagement slot having a first slot length at least as    long as the second distance, and a first slot width at least as wide    as the boss width; and a second engagement slot formed on the first    engagement surface spaced apart and in-line with the first    engagement slot, a slot spacing length between the first engagement    slot and the second engagement slot, the slot spacing length at most    as long as the first distance, and a second slot width at least as    wide as the boss width; wherein, the combination of one or more of    the first slot length, the first slot width, the slot spacing    length, and the second slot width providing a fit that locates the    first engagement boss and the second engagement boss of the clamp    within at least the first engagement slot and prevents substantial    movement of the clamp relative to the rail.-   90. The rail of embodiment 89, wherein the first engagement slot and    the second engagement slot are through slots.-   91. The rail of embodiment 89 or 90, wherein the first engagement    slot and the second engagement slot are the same length.-   92. The rail of any one of embodiments 89-91, wherein the first    engagement slot is longer than the second engagement slot.-   93. The rail of embodiment 92, wherein the second engagement slot    having a second slot length longer than the boss length and shorter    than the second distance.-   94. The rail of any one of embodiments 89-93, wherein the first    engagement slot and the second engagement slot include a lead-in to    ease the transition between the first engagement surface and each of    the first engagement slot and the second engagement slot.-   95. The rail of embodiment 94, wherein the lead-in is one or both of    a chamfer and a fillet.-   96. The rail of any one of embodiments 89-95, wherein the first    engagement slot provides a locational clearance fit for receiving    the first engagement boss and the second engagement boss for    locating the clamp relative to the rail.-   97. The rail of any one of embodiments 89-96, wherein the third    surface is configured as a third engagement surface with a third    engagement slot and a fourth engagement slot, the third engagement    slot aligned with and matching the first engagement slot, the fourth    engagement slot aligned with and matching the second engagement    slot.-   98. The rail of any one of embodiments 89-97, wherein the rail body    comprises a first frame member, a second frame member, and a    sidewall member, the first engagement surface being defined on a    first frame member, the third surface being defined on a second    frame member, and the second surface being defined on a sidewall    frame member, the sidewall member being sandwiched between and    spacing apart the first frame member and the second frame member,    with the first frame member fastened to the second frame member.-   99. The rail of embodiment 98, wherein a plurality of female    threaded standoffs extend between the second frame member and the    first frame member, a plurality of male threaded fasteners extend    through each of the first frame member and the second frame member    to thread into the plurality of female threaded standoffs to firmly    fasten the first frame member and the second frame member.-   100. The rail of embodiment 98 or 99, wherein the rail body is    configured as a device protective case for a portable electronic    device, and is configured to enclose a perimeter of the portable    electronic device, the rail further comprising: a top cover plate    configured to cover a screen of the portable electronic device and a    bottom cover plate configured to cover a back of the portable    electronic device; wherein, when assembled, the first frame member    overlaps the top cover plate, the second frame member overlaps the    bottom cover plate, the portable electronic device is configured to    be sandwiched between the top cover plate and the bottom cover    plate, the top cover plate is configured to be sandwiched between    the first frame member and the screen, and the bottom cover plate is    configured to be sandwiched between the second frame member and the    back; and wherein, fastening the first frame member to the second    frame member firmly holds device protective case and the portable    electronic device therein firmly together in assembly.-   101. The rail of embodiment 100 further comprising: an elastomeric    gasket member having a groove configured to receive a perimeter edge    of the portable electronic device with the elastomeric gasket member    surrounding the perimeter edge; wherein the elastomeric gasket    member is positioned between the first frame member and the top    cover plate and positioned between the second frame member and the    bottom cover; and wherein a water-tight seal is formed between the    elastomeric gasket member and both the top cover plate and the    bottom cover plate.-   102. An adaptor comprising a) a hinged coupler comprising a coupler    base and an inner knuckle, the inner knuckle comprising a barrel    portion with a first end and a second end and a coupler extending    perpendicularly from barrel portion, and b) a first device holder,    the first device holder attached to the first end of the barrel    portion of the inner knuckle,-   103. An adaptor of embodiment 102 further comprising a second device    holder, the second device holder attached to the second end of the    barrel portion of the inner knuckle,-   104. An adaptor of embodiment 102 or 103, wherein the inner knuckle    is rotatably coupled to the coupler base.-   105. An adaptor of embodiment 104, wherein the coupler base further    comprises a first detent plunger and a second detent plunger, the    first and second detent plungers each comprising a detent cylinder    with an open end and a closed end opposite the open end and a detent    ball and a detent compression spring captured within the detent    cylinder, the detent compression spring outwardly bias detent ball    toward the open end of the detent cylinder in a manner that causes    the detent ball to protrude from the open end of the detent    cylinder, wherein the inner knuckle further comprises a first row of    detents that are annularly spaced apart and aligned and a second row    of detents that are annularly spaced apart and aligned, the first    and second row of detents being parallel to each other, wherein the    first and second detent plungers are aligned with the first and    second row of detents respectively, in a manner that the detent ball    protruding from the open end of the detent cylinder will be seated    in a detent from the first and second row of detents, and wherein an    angular position of the inner knuckle is selectively controlled when    a detent from the first and second row of detents is selectively    brought into alignment with the detent ball of first and second    detent plungers by relative rotation between the inner knuckle and    the coupler base.-   106. An adaptor comprising a coupler base including a first outer    knuckle and a second outer knuckle, an inner knuckle and a latching    socket including a socket body and a socket formed within the socket    body.-   107. The adaptor of embodiment 106, wherein the inner knuckle is    rotatably coupled to the coupler base by a hinge pin inserted    through the first outer knuckle, the inner knuckle and the second    outer knuckle.-   108. The adaptor of any one of embodiments 106 or 107, wherein the    coupler base further comprises a first detent plunger and a second    detent plunger, the first and second detent plungers each comprising    a detent cylinder with an open end and a closed end opposite the    open end and a detent ball and a detent compression spring captured    within the detent cylinder, the detent compression spring outwardly    bias detent ball toward the open end of the detent cylinder in a    manner that causes the detent ball to protrude from the open end of    the detent cylinder, wherein the inner knuckle further comprises a    first row of detents that are annularly spaced apart and aligned and    a second row of detents that are annularly spaced apart and aligned,    the first and second row of detents being parallel to each other,    wherein the first and second detent plungers are aligned with the    first and second row of detents respectively, in a manner that the    detent ball protruding from the open end of the detent cylinder will    be seated in a detent from the first and second row of detents, and    wherein an angular position of the inner knuckle is selectively    controlled when a detent from the first and second row of detents is    selectively brought into alignment with the detent ball of first and    second detent plungers by relative rotation between the inner    knuckle and the coupler base.-   109. The adaptor of embodiment 108, wherein the first detent plunger    is positioned by the first outer knuckle and oriented radially    toward the inner knuckle and the second detent plunger is positioned    by the second outer knuckle and oriented radially toward the inner    knuckle.-   110. The adaptor of any one of embodiments 106-109, wherein the    inner knuckle is rotatably coupled to the latching socket by a    detent mechanism, wherein a cylindrical drum portion of the latching    socket is inserted into a cylindrical sleeve portion of the inner    knuckle causing an end surface portion of the cylindrical sleeve    portion to come into close proximity to an end surface of the    cylindrical drum portion, wherein the inner knuckle further    comprises one or more detent plungers, each of the one or more    detent plungers comprising a detent cylinder with an open end and a    closed end opposite the open end and a detent ball and a detent    compression spring captured within the detent cylinder, the detent    compression spring outwardly bias detent ball toward the open end of    the detent cylinder in a manner that causes the detent ball to    protrude from the open end of the detent cylinder, wherein the end    surface of the cylindrical drum portion of the latching socket    further comprises a ring of detents that are annularly spaced apart    and located near the perimeter of the end surface of the cylindrical    drum portion, wherein each of the one or more detent plungers is    aligned with the ring of detents in a manner that the detent ball    protruding from the open end of the detent cylinder of each of the    one or more detent plungers will be seated in a detent from the ring    of detents, and wherein a rotational position of the latching socket    is selectively controlled when a detent from the from the ring of    detents is selectively brought into alignment with the detent ball    of each of the one or more detent plungers by relative rotation    between the latching socket and the inner knuckle.-   111. The adaptor of any one of embodiments 106-110, wherein the    latching socket includes a) latching pin bore formed blindly in the    body transversely to the socket and intersecting the socket, a    spring bore being formed at a blind end of the latching pin bore and    an open end of the latching pin bore opening through the socket    body, b) a latching pin slidably fitted within the latching pin    bore, the latching pin having a keyway notched laterally therein,    the keyway including a locking edge, a purchase end of the latching    pin protruding from the open end and a spring end positioned within    the spring bore, c) a spring positioned within the spring bore    between the blend end of the latching pin bore and the spring end of    the latching pin, the spring biasing the latching pin toward the    open end of the spring bore; wherein, in a locked configuration, the    keyway is biased to be misaligned with the latching pin bore so that    the locking edge of the keyway is positioned within the latching pin    bore; and wherein, in a unlocked configuration, the first end of the    latching pin is manually pressed axially further into the latching    pin bore to move the locking edge toward the spring bore.-   112. The adaptor of embodiment 111, wherein the latching pin bore is    formed orthogonally to the socket.-   113. The adaptor of embodiment 111 or 112, wherein the latching    socket further comprises a) a second latching pin bore formed    blindly in the body transversely to the socket and intersecting the    socket, a second spring bore being formed at a second blind end of    the second latching pin bore and an second open end of the latching    pin bore opening through the socket body, the second latching pin    bore positioned apart from the latching pin bore; and b) a second    latching pin slidably fitted within the second latching pin bore,    the second latching pin having a second keyway notched laterally    therein, the second keyway including a second locking edge, a second    purchase end of the latching pin protruding from the second open end    and a second spring end positioned within the second spring bore.-   114. The adaptor of embodiment 113, wherein the latching pin bore    and the second latching pin bore are formed orthogonally to the    socket, with the latching pin bore and the second latching pin bore    axially parallel to one another.-   115. The adaptor of any one of embodiments 111-114, wherein the    locking edge of the keyway is configured to be engaged with the    latch engagement portion of the attachment when the attachment is    inserted within the socket in the locked configuration.-   116. The adaptor of any one of embodiments 106-115, wherein the    socket is hexagonally shaped.

EXAMPLES

The following non-limiting examples are provided for illustrativepurposes only in order to facilitate a more complete understanding ofrepresentative embodiments now contemplated. These examples should notbe construed to limit any of the embodiments described in the presentspecification, including those pertaining to the compounds,pharmaceutical compositions, or methods and uses disclosed herein.

Example 1

This example illustrates how to employ a mounting system disclosedherein to attach a video recorder onto a helmet.

A user has an motorcycle helmet and desires to secure a video recorderto the helmet. The user obtains a rail disclosed herein as shown in FIG.5 and secures this rail, peels off a protective sheet from an adhesivelayer present on the bottom side of the rail, and affixes the rail to anexterior surface portion of the helmet. The user then secures a bracketcomprising a hinged coupler as shown in FIG. 55 to the rail by engagingthe engagement bosses of first and second jaw members the bracketcomprising a hinged coupler to engagement slots present on the rail. Theuse then attaches the video recorder to the helmet by screwing thethreaded screw of a coupler disclosed herein as shown in FIG. 68 into athreaded hole present on the video recorder and then attaches the videorecorder to the motorcycle helmet by inserting the other end of thecoupler into the socket the hinged coupler thereby securing the videorecorder to the motorcycle helmet.

In an alternative example, instead of employing a bracket comprising ahinged coupler as shown in FIG. 55, the user employs a bracket a shownin FIG. 28 and a bracket adaptor comprising a disc including first andsecond threaded screws centrally located, with the first threaded screwperpendicular to the top surface of the disc and the second threadedscrew perpendicular to the bottom surface of the disc. The user attachesthe bracket adaptor to the video recorder by screwing the first threadedscrew of bracket adaptor into a threaded hole present on the videorecorder. Either before or after attachment of bracket to rail affixedto the motorcycle helmet, the user attaches the video recorder to thebracket by screwing the second threaded screw of bracket adaptor into athreaded hole of an attachment point present on the bracket. If notalready attached, the user then attaches the video recorder to thehelmet by engaging the engagement bosses of first and second jaw membersthe bracket to engagement slots present on the rail, thereby securingthe video recorder to the motorcycle helmet.

In an alternative example, the video recorder is a Go-Pro videorecorder, and the user employs a bracket a shown in FIG. 28 and thebracket adaptor is the one shown at FIG. 46. Either before or afterattachment of bracket to rail affixed to the helmet, the user attachesthe bracket adaptor to the bracket by screwing the threaded screw ofbracket adaptor into a threaded hole of an attachment point present onthe bracket. The user then attaches the video recorder by aligning theholes present on the bracket adaptor and the bracket present on thevideo recorder, inserting a treaded pin and securing the threaded pin ina manner that attached the video recorder to the bracket attachment. Innot already attached, the user then secures the bracket to the rail byengaging the engagement bosses of first and second jaw members thebracket to engagement slots present on the rail, thereby securing thevideo recorder to the motorcycle helmet.

In an alternative example to the ones above, the helmet is a bicyclehelmet.

Example 2

This example illustrates how to employ a mounting system disclosedherein to attach a night vision google onto a helmet.

A user has an ACH helmet comprising a shroud bracket and desires tosecure a night vision google (NVG) using this bracket. The user obtainsa rail disclosed herein as shown in FIG. 6 and secures this rail intothe shroud bracket. The use then obtains a rail disclosed herein asshown in FIG. 2 and secures this rail to a portion of the NVG. The userthen secures a bracket comprising a hinged coupler as shown in FIG. 55to the rail secured on the shroud bracket by engaging the engagementbosses of first and second jaw members the bracket comprising a hingedcoupler to engagement slots present on the rail. The user similarlysecures a bracket comprising a hinged coupler as shown in FIG. 55 to therail secured on the NVG by engaging the engagement bosses of first andsecond jaw members the bracket comprising a hinged coupler to engagementslots present on the rail. The use then attaches the NVG to the helmetby inserting a coupler disclosed herein as shown in FIG. 57 into thesockets of both hinged couplers thereby securing the NVG to the helmet.In this set-up, when the user desires to stow away the NVG, the user canfold the NVG up in close proximity to the rail affixed to the helmet.Likewise, when use is desired, the use can move the NVG downward fromthe helmet in a manner that aligns the optical sights of the NVG withone or both eyes of the user to view the environment using the NVG.

Example 3

This example illustrates how to employ a mounting system disclosedherein to attach a device in a device case disclosed herein onto a loadbearing equipment vest.

A user has a smart phone and desires to secure the phone to a loadbearing equipment vest, like a MOLLE load bearing system, a PALS loadbearing system, an IIFS load bearing system, or an ALICE load bearingsystem. The user obtains a rail disclosed herein as shown in FIG. 3 andsecures this rail on the load bearing equipment vest using screws,rivets or both. The user then obtains a rail disclosed herein designedas a device case as shown in FIG. 8 and encloses the phone inside thedevice case. The user then secures a bracket comprising a hinged coupleras shown in FIG. 55 to the rail secured on the load bearing equipmentvest by engaging the engagement bosses of first and second jaw membersthe bracket comprising a hinged coupler to engagement slots present onthe rail. The user similarly secures a bracket comprising a hingedcoupler as shown in FIG. 55 to the device case by engaging theengagement bosses of first and second jaw members the bracket comprisinga hinged coupler to engagement slots present on the device case. Theuser then attaches the device case to the load bearing equipment vest byinserting a coupler disclosed herein as shown in FIG. 57 into thesockets of both hinged couplers thereby securing the device case to theload bearing equipment vest. In this set-up, when the user desires tostow away the device case, the user can fold the device case in closeproximity to the load bearing equipment vest. Likewise, when use isdesired, the use can extend the device case away from the load bearingequipment vest to view the device encased in the device case.

In an alternative example, instead of employing both brackets comprisinga hinged coupler as shown in FIG. 55, the user employs a bracket a shownin FIG. 28 and a bracket adaptor comprising a disc including first andsecond threaded screws centrally located, with the first threaded screwperpendicular to the top surface of the disc and the second threadedscrew perpendicular to the bottom surface of the disc. The user attachesthe bracket adaptor to the device case by screwing the first threadedscrew of bracket adaptor into a threaded hole of an attachment pointpresent on the device case. Either before or after attachment of bracketto rail affixed to the load bearing equipment vest, the user attachesthe device case to the bracket by screwing the second threaded screw ofbracket adaptor into a threaded hole of an attachment point present onthe bracket. If not already attached, the user then attaches the devicecase to the load bearing equipment vest by engaging the engagementbosses of first and second jaw members the bracket to engagement slotspresent on the rail, thereby securing the device case to the loadbearing equipment vest.

Example 4

This example illustrates how to employ a mounting system disclosedherein to attach a device in a device case disclosed herein onto adashboard of a vehicle.

A user has a smart phone and desires to secure the phone to thedashboard of a car. The user obtains a rail disclosed herein as shown inFIG. 3 and secures this rail, peels off a protective sheet from anadhesive layer present on the bottom side of the rail, and affixes therail to an exterior surface portion of the dashboard. The user thenobtains a rail disclosed herein designed as a device case as shown inFIG. 8 and encloses the phone inside the device case. The user thensecures a bracket comprising a hinged coupler as shown in FIG. 55 to therail secured on the dashboard by engaging the engagement bosses of firstand second jaw members the bracket comprising a hinged coupler toengagement slots present on the rail. The user similarly secures abracket comprising a hinged coupler as shown in FIG. 55 to the devicecase by engaging the engagement bosses of first and second jaw membersthe bracket comprising a hinged coupler to engagement slots present onthe device case. The user then attaches the device case to the dashboardby inserting a coupler disclosed herein as shown in FIG. 57 into thesockets of both hinged couplers thereby securing the device case to thedashboard.

In an alternative example, instead of employing both brackets comprisinga hinged coupler as shown in FIG. 55, the user employs a bracket a shownin FIG. 28 and a bracket adaptor comprising a disc including first andsecond threaded screws centrally located, with the first threaded screwperpendicular to the top surface of the disc and the second threadedscrew perpendicular to the bottom surface of the disc. The user attachesthe bracket adaptor to the device case by screwing the first threadedscrew of bracket adaptor into a threaded hole of an attachment pointpresent on the device case. Either before or after attachment of bracketto rail affixed to the dashboard, the user attaches the device case tothe bracket by screwing the second threaded screw of bracket adaptorinto a threaded hole of an attachment point present on the bracket. Ifnot already attached, the user then attaches the device case to thedashboard by engaging the engagement bosses of first and second jawmembers the bracket to engagement slots present on the rail, therebysecuring the device case to the dashboard.

In an alternative example to the ones above, the rail is affixed to aninterior surface of a window present in the car, like a windshield, rearwindow, driver window or passenger window.

Example 5

This example illustrates how to employ a mounting system disclosedherein to attach a video recorder onto a dashboard of a vehicle.

A user has a video recorder and desires to secure the video recorder tothe dashboard of a car. The user obtains a rail disclosed herein asshown in FIG. 3 and secures this rail, peels off a protective sheet froman adhesive layer present on the bottom side of the rail, and affixesthe rail to an exterior surface portion of the dashboard. The user thensecures a bracket comprising a hinged coupler as shown in FIG. 55 to therail by engaging the engagement bosses of first and second jaw membersthe bracket comprising a hinged coupler to engagement slots present onthe rail. The use then attaches the video recorder to the dashboard byscrewing the threaded screw of a coupler disclosed herein as shown inFIG. 68 into a threaded hole present on the video recorder and thenattaches the video recorder to the dashboard by inserting the other endof the coupler into the socket the hinged coupler thereby securing thevideo recorder to the dashboard.

In an alternative example, instead of employing a bracket comprising ahinged coupler as shown in FIG. 55, the user employs a bracket a shownin FIG. 28 and a bracket adaptor comprising a disc including first andsecond threaded screws centrally located, with the first threaded screwperpendicular to the top surface of the disc and the second threadedscrew perpendicular to the bottom surface of the disc. The user attachesthe bracket adaptor to the video recorder by screwing the first threadedscrew of bracket adaptor into a threaded hole present on the videorecorder. Either before or after attachment of bracket to rail affixedto the dashboard, the user attaches the video recorder to the bracket byscrewing the second threaded screw of bracket adaptor into a threadedhole of an attachment point present on the bracket. If not alreadyattached, the user then attaches the video recorder to the dashboard byengaging the engagement bosses of first and second jaw members thebracket to engagement slots present on the rail, thereby securing thevideo recorder to the dashboard.

In an alternative example, the video recorder is a Go-Pro videorecorder, and the user employs a bracket a shown in FIG. 28 and thebracket adaptor is the one shown at FIG. 46. Either before or afterattachment of bracket to rail affixed to the dashboard, the userattaches the bracket adaptor to the bracket by screwing the threadedscrew of bracket adaptor into a threaded hole of an attachment pointpresent on the bracket. The user then attaches the video recorder byaligning the holes present on the bracket adaptor and the bracketpresent on the video recorder, inserting a treaded pin and securing thethreaded pin in a manner that attached the video recorder to the bracketattachment. In not already attached, the user then secures the bracketto the rail by engaging the engagement bosses of first and second jawmembers the bracket to engagement slots present on the rail, therebysecuring the video recorder to the dashboard.

In an alternative example to the ones above, the rail is affixed to aninterior surface of a window present in the car, like a windshield, rearwindow, driver window or passenger window.

Example 6

This example illustrates how to employ a mounting system disclosedherein to attach a device in a device case disclosed herein onto a loadbearing equipment vest and additional components of the mounting systemdisclosed herein to the device case.

A user attaches a device case to a rail secured on a load bearingequipment vest using any of the procedures described in Example 3. Theuser then secures a bracket comprising a hinged coupler as shown in FIG.55 to the device in a position opposite the location of where the devicecase is attached to the rail by engaging the engagement bosses of firstand second jaw members the bracket comprising a hinged coupler toengagement slots present on the rail. The user then obtains an adaptoras shown in adaptor and attaches the adaptor to the device case byinserting a coupler disclosed herein as shown in FIG. 70 into the socketof the hinged coupler thereby securing the adaptor to the device case.The user then attached a GPS, a compass and a flashlight to the adaptoras shown in FIG. 71. In this set-up, when the user desires to stow awaythe devices, the user can fold the adaptor in close proximity to oneside of the device case and then fold the device case-adaptor assemblyin close proximity to the load bearing equipment vest. Likewise, whenuse is desired, the use can extend the device case-adaptor assembly awayfrom the load bearing equipment vest to view the device encased in thedevice case, and then further extend the adaptor to view the devicescontained therein.

Example 7

This example illustrates how to employ a mounting system disclosedherein to attach a device in a device case disclosed hereinalternatively onto a dashboard or a load bearing equipment vest.

A user secures a rail disclosed herein as shown in FIG. 3 to a loadbearing equipment vest using any of the procedures described in Example3. The user secures a rail disclosed herein as shown in FIG. 3 to adashboard using any of the procedures described in Example 4. The userencases a device in a device case disclosed herein as shown in FIG. 8 asdescribed in Example 3. In use, when entering a vehicle the user canattach the device case to the rail secured on dashboard using any of theprocedures described in Example 4. When leaving the vehicle the user candetach the device case from the rail on the dashboard and then attachthe device case to the rail secured on the load bearing equipment vestusing any of the procedures described in Example 3.

In an alternative example, instead of the device case, the user employsthe mounting system disclosed herein for a video recorder. In this case,when entering a vehicle the user can attach the video recorder to therail secured on dashboard using any of the procedures described inExample 5. When leaving the vehicle the user can detach the videorecorder from the rail on the dashboard and then attach the videorecorder to the rail secured on the load bearing equipment vest usingany of the procedures described in Example 3 or attach the videorecorder to the rail secured on a helmet using any of the proceduresdescribed in Example 1.

In closing, it is to be understood that although aspects of the presentspecification are highlighted by referring to specific embodiments, oneskilled in the art will readily appreciate that these disclosedembodiments are only illustrative of the principles of the subjectmatter disclosed herein. Therefore, it should be understood that thedisclosed subject matter is in no way limited to a particular compound,composition, article, apparatus, methodology, protocol, and/or reagent,etc., described herein, unless expressly stated as such. In addition,those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that certain changes,modifications, permutations, alterations, additions, subtractions andsub-combinations thereof can be made in accordance with the teachingsherein without departing from the spirit of the present specification.It is therefore intended that the following appended claims and claimshereafter introduced are interpreted to include all such changes,modifications, permutations, alterations, additions, subtractions andsub-combinations as are within their true spirit and scope.

Certain embodiments of the present invention are described herein,including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out theinvention. Of course, variations on these described embodiments willbecome apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading theforegoing description. The inventor expects skilled artisans to employsuch variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the presentinvention to be practiced otherwise than specifically described herein.Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalentsof the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permittedby applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-describedembodiments in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by theinvention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearlycontradicted by context.

Groupings of alternative embodiments, elements, or steps of the presentinvention are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member maybe referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with othergroup members disclosed herein. It is anticipated that one or moremembers of a group may be included in, or deleted from, a group forreasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion ordeletion occurs, the specification is deemed to contain the group asmodified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groupsused in the appended claims.

Use of the terms “may” or “can” in reference to an embodiment or aspectof an embodiment also carries with it the alternative meaning of “maynot” or “cannot.” As such, if the present specification discloses thatan embodiment or an aspect of an embodiment may be or can be included aspart of the inventive subject matter, then the negative limitation orexclusionary proviso is also explicitly meant, meaning that anembodiment or an aspect of an embodiment may not be or cannot beincluded as part of the inventive subject matter. In a similar manner,use of the term “optionally” in reference to an embodiment or aspect ofan embodiment means that such embodiment or aspect of the embodiment maybe included as part of the inventive subject matter or may not beincluded as part of the inventive subject matter. Whether such anegative limitation or exclusionary proviso applies will be based onwhether the negative limitation or exclusionary proviso is recited inthe claimed subject matter.

The terms “a,” “an,” “the” and similar references used in the context ofdescribing the present invention (especially in the context of thefollowing claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and theplural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted bycontext. Further, ordinal indicators—such as “first,” “second,” “third,”etc.—for identified elements are used to distinguish between theelements, and do not indicate or imply a required or limited number ofsuch elements, and do not indicate a particular position or order ofsuch elements unless otherwise specifically stated. All methodsdescribed herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwiseindicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The useof any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”)provided herein is intended merely to better illuminate the presentinvention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the inventionotherwise claimed. No language in the present specification should beconstrued as indicating any non-claimed element essential to thepractice of the invention.

When used in the claims, whether as filed or added per amendment, theopen-ended transitional term “comprising”, variations thereof such as“comprise” and “comprises”, and equivalent open-ended transitionalphrases thereof like “including,” “containing” and “having”, encompassesall the expressly recited elements, limitations, steps, integers, and/orfeatures alone or in combination with unrecited subject matter; thenamed elements, limitations, steps, integers, and/or features areessential, but other unnamed elements, limitations, steps, integers,and/or features may be added and still form a construct within the scopeof the claim. Specific embodiments disclosed herein may be furtherlimited in the claims using the closed-ended transitional phrases“consisting of” or “consisting essentially of” (or variations thereofsuch as “consist of”, “consists of”, “consist essentially of”, and“consists essentially of”) in lieu of or as an amendment for“comprising.” When used in the claims, whether as filed or added peramendment, the closed-ended transitional phrase “consisting of” excludesany element, limitation, step, integer, or feature not expressly recitedin the claims. The closed-ended transitional phrase “consistingessentially of” limits the scope of a claim to the expressly recitedelements, limitations, steps, integers, and/or features and any otherelements, limitations, steps, integers, and/or features that do notmaterially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimedsubject matter. Thus, the meaning of the open-ended transitional phrase“comprising” is being defined as encompassing all the specificallyrecited elements, limitations, steps and/or features as well as anyoptional, additional unspecified ones. The meaning of the closed-endedtransitional phrase “consisting of” is being defined as only includingthose elements, limitations, steps, integers, and/or featuresspecifically recited in the claim whereas the meaning of theclosed-ended transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” is beingdefined as only including those elements, limitations, steps, integers,and/or features specifically recited in the claim and those elements,limitations, steps, integers, and/or features that do not materiallyaffect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed subjectmatter. Therefore, the open-ended transitional phrase “comprising” (andequivalent open-ended transitional phrases thereof) includes within itsmeaning, as a limiting case, claimed subject matter specified by theclosed-ended transitional phrases “consisting of” or “consistingessentially of.” As such embodiments described herein or so claimed withthe phrase “comprising” are expressly or inherently unambiguouslydescribed, enabled and supported herein for the phrases “consistingessentially of” and “consisting of.”

Lastly, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describingparticular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope ofthe present invention, which is defined solely by the claims.Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to that precisely asshown and described.

1. A bracket, the bracket comprising a first jaw member, the first jawmember comprising an inner surface including a first clamping portion, asecond jaw member, the second jaw member comprising an inner surfaceincluding a second clamping portion, a pin assembly comprising alatching pin including a latch bolt hole, the pin assembly configured toconnect the first and second jaw members and enable the first and secondjaw members to slidably translate toward one another in a firstdirection or away from one another in a direction opposite the firstdirection, and a latch bolt assembly comprising a latch bolt slidablyfitted within a latch bolt bore, the latch bolt including a first endand a second end, wherein the bracket can adopt an open configurationand a closed configuration.
 2. The bracket of claim 1, wherein the firstclamping portion including one or more engagement bosses, the secondclamping portion including one or more engagement bosses, or both thefirst and second clamping portions each include one or more engagementbosses.
 3. The bracket of claim 1, wherein the latch bolt assembly ishoused in the second jaw member.
 4. The bracket of claim 1, wherein thelatch bolt further comprises a latch bolt spring capable of providing aseparating bias that forces the latch bolt in a direction outward fromthe latch bolt bore.
 5. The bracket of claim 1, wherein the bracketfurther comprises one or more jaw compression springs, the one or morejaw compression springs capable of providing a separating bias thatforces the first jaw member and the second jaw member apart.
 6. Thebracket of claim 5, wherein each of the one or more jaw compressionsprings including a first end and a second end, wherein the first end isseated on a first mating portion of the first jaw member and the secondend is seated on a second mating portion of the second jaw member, 7.The bracket of claim 1, wherein the pin assembly further comprises aguide pin, the guide pin being perpendicular to the first and secondclamping portions of the first and second jaw members.
 8. The bracket ofclaim 1, wherein when the bracket is in the closed configuration, thefirst and second jaw members are in close proximity to one another andthe latch bolt is inserted in latch bolt hole of the latching pin. 9.The bracket of claim 1, wherein when the bracket is in the openconfiguration, the first and second jaw members are apart from oneanother and the latch bolt is removed from the latch bolt hole of thelatching pin.
 10. The bracket of claim 1, wherein the bracket furthercomprises a back plate and a back plate recess, the back plate beingcantilevered from the first jaw member and the back plate recess beingformed on the second jaw member, the back plate recess configured toreceive the back plate.
 11. The bracket of claim 10, wherein the backplate includes one or more attachment points configured to reversablesecure a device or component thereof to the back plate.
 12. The bracketof claim 11, wherein each of the one or more attachment points is ablind screw hole capable of receiving a threaded screw.
 13. The bracketof claim 11, wherein the back plate further includes one or moreindexing holes configured to properly orientate the device of componentthereof to the back plate.
 14. The bracket of claim 1, wherein thebracket further comprises an outer surface comprising a hinged coupler,the hinged coupler comprising a coupler base including a latchingsocket, the latching socket comprising a socket body and a socket formedwithin the socket body, the socket configured to reversable secure acoupler.
 15. The bracket of claim 14, wherein the outer surface islocated on the first jaw member or the second jaw member.
 16. Thebracket of claim 14, wherein the coupler base includes a first outerknuckle and a second outer knuckle, an inner knuckle
 17. The bracket ofclaim 16, wherein the inner knuckle is rotatably coupled to the couplerbase by a hinge pin inserted through the first outer knuckle, the innerknuckle and the second outer knuckle.
 18. The bracket of claim 16,wherein the inner knuckle is rotatably coupled to the latching socket.19. The bracket of claim 14, wherein the socket body further comprises afirst latching pin bore, a first latching pin, and a first latching pinspring, the first latching pin bore located transversely to the socketand intersecting the socket, the first latching pin bore having a firstopen end and a second closed end and configured to slidably receive thefirst latching pin, and the first latching pin having a keyway notchedlaterally therein, the keyway including a locking edge, wherein thesecond closed end of the first latching pin bore includes a spring cupconfigured to receive the first latching pin spring, the first latchingpin spring capable of providing a separating bias that forces thelocking edge of the first latching pin into the socket.
 20. The bracketof claim 19, wherein the socket body further comprises a second latchingpin bore, a second latching pin, and a second latching pin spring, thesecond latching pin bore located transversely to the socket andintersecting the socket, the second latching pin bore having a firstopen end and a second closed end and configured to slidably receive thesecond latching pin, and the second latching pin having a keyway notchedlaterally therein, the keyway including a locking edge, wherein thesecond closed end of the second latching pin bore includes a spring cupconfigured to receive the second latching pin spring, the secondlatching pin spring capable of providing a separating bias that forcesthe locking edge of the second latching pin into the socket.